Michael Hall in a Sept. 30 rehearsal for “Rope,” which is playing at Brewery Arts Center throughout October.
Melody Jane Photo
A new production of a dark play is premiering at Brewery Arts Center this October. Originally penned by Patrick Hamilton, “Rope” will hit the stage of the west Carson City venue on Oct. 13 and run through Oct. 22.
It will be a painstakingly monochromatic experience, according to director Steven Segal.
“I really wanted to do something that was unique, challenging, and would be an experience for all. Audience, actors and myself,” Segal wrote in a news release. “My first-ever directorial play was this past season with 'Gaslight,' which was an incredible challenge. I wanted to do something that not only would be equally as challenging story-wise, but wanted to further increase the difficulty by replicating a black-and-white film appearance live on stage.”
Proscenium Players Inc., the nonprofit Carson-based theater company, is presenting the show in BAC’s Maizie Theater. Showtimes are 7 p.m. Oct. 13, 14, 20 and 21. Matinee performances are slated for 2 p.m. Oct. 15 and 22.
“Rope” was made into a 1948 film by director Alfred Hitchcock, a film that Segal called “a cinematic masterpiece.”
The story revolves around a murder by two friends “who believe they have committed the perfect crime,” Segal said.
“As tension escalates and secrets unravel during a high-society dinner party, the audience will be on the edge of their seats, immersed in a world of suspense,” he said.
Creating a black-and-white aesthetic was challenging but worth it, Segal explained. He said transforming the theater to grayscale meant meticulous lighting and different shades of gray paint used on the stage, props and actors. Cast and crew stepped up to the challenge.
“Countless hours have been put into set design, test and build,” Segal said. “The makeup team is incredible, coming in an hour and a half prior to rehearsals to test out the makeup. I absolutely could not do it without them. Without such an incredible cast, this would have never been possible, and I am beyond thrilled with the results. I think we are going to have not only an incredible show, but something that people will be discussing for quite a while.”
Tickets for “Rope” are $25 a person or $20 for seniors or for groups of eight. Tickets can be purchased in person at BAC (449 W. King St.) or online at carsontheater.com.