Arsenic and
Old Lace
By Joseph Kesselring
February 20 - March 1, 2026
Directed by Ray Taylor
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Even in the most eccentric of homes, family bonds and the familiar comforts of 'home' take center stage. This classic comedy reminds us that home is where our quirks are celebrated, and where even the most unexpected surprises await. In this case they await our hero, Mortimer Brewster, a drama critic who must deal with his crazy, murderous family and local police in Brooklyn, New York all while debating whether to go through with his recent promise to marry the woman he loves.
Performances
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​​Thursday, Feb. 19, 2026- 7:30 p.m. PWYC Performance
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Friday, Feb. 20, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
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Saturday, Feb. 21, 2026 - 2:00 p.m.
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Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026 - 2:00 p.m. - Matinee
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Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 - 9:00 a.m. - School Show
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Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 - 2:00 p.m. - Matinee
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Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026- 7:30 p.m.
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Friday, Feb. 27, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
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Saturday, Feb. 28, 2026 - 7:30 p.m.
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Sunday, Mar. 1, 2026 - 2:00 p.m. - Matinee
Director - Ray Taylor
Stage Manager - TBD
Scenic Design - Therrin Eber
Costume Design - Jeanette Waterman
Lighting Design - Lyndell McDonald
Sound Design - TBD
​Props Design - TBD
Flex Season Tickets may be redeemed for this production starting on January 13, 2026, and all tickets will be available for purchase starting January 20. 2026.
Production Credits
Characters
Characters:
Abby Brewster (Female 50-70 years old or able to Play age or able to Play age) A darling lady, and the very model of Victorian charm and grace, who poisons elderly gentlemen, with her sister as an act of charity. She and her sister Martha seem to be the absolute embodiment of the values and polite society of a bygone age. The Aunt to Teddy, Jonathan, and Mortimer.
Martha Brewster (Female 50-70 years old or able to Play age) Very sweet, but more submissive than Abby, Martha still is a strong woman. She and her sister have lived together for many, many years. The Aunt to Teddy, Jonathan, and Mortimer.
Elaine Harper (Female 25-40 years old or able to Play age) An Attractive girl, daughter of Rev. Dr. Harper, and Mortimer’s fiancée. She is surprisingly wise in the ways of the world for a minister’s daughter.
Auditions
Auditions: Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 15 and 16, 2025
6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Location: TBA
Click here to read our auditioning tips.
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Mortimer Brewster (Male 30-50 years old or able to Play age) Nephew of Abby and Martha, brother to both Teddy and Jonathan Brewster. A very likable, Mortimer is a drama critic who is in love with, & engaged to Elaine Harper. A good-hearted cynic who is about to have his world turned upside down.
Teddy Brewster (40-60 years old or able to Play age) Very likable, kindhearted brother to Mortimer and Jonathan, Nephew of Abby and Martha Brewster, Teddy is a man who believes that he is the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt
Jonathan Brewster (40-60 years old or able to Play age) Nephew of Abby and Martha Brewster, brother to Teddy and Mortimer. Jonathan is a psychopath who has numerous murders to his credit and no scruples whatsoever. He is creepy.
Dr. Einstein (45-55 years old or able to Play age) A German plastic surgeon, with an accent to prove it. Right hand to Jonathan, Dr. Einstein is mousey and submissive to Jonathan. Einstein should be viewed as a good guy whose life has gone bad.
The Reverend Dr. Harper (50-70 years old or able to Play age) (Cameo) We only see Elaine Harper’s father in the opening scene; a doctor of divinity, and the minister to the church next door to the Brewster house. The Brewster sisters have seen many ministers come and go over the years, but they seem to be particularly fond of Dr. Harper and vice versa. The actor portraying Dr. Harper should display a sense of polish, refinement, and mild mannered sensitivity towards others. He is not in favor of Mortimer and Elaine’s relationship.
Officer Brophy (25-45 years old or able to Play age) The first police officer we meet in the show, Brophy is a thoroughly likable sort of fellow. Is making his rounds collecting Christmas toys for the needy. Some PHYSICAL work.
Officer Klein (25-45 years old or able to Play age) A flatfoot Brooklyn officer who makes his rounds with Officer Brophy collecting Christmas toys.
Officer O’Hara (any age) He is the quintessential example of an Irish-American police officer: Full of life, good natured and played big. He is on very good terms with the Aunts. O’Hara is a would-be playwright, and needs to plainly display the nagging, persistent drive that’s kindled within him once he discovers that
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the running time of the production?
Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
Will there be an intermission?
Yes, there will be one 15-minute intermission.
Should I bring the kids?
This show is appropriate for older children and teens. Parents should be aware that the comedy involves murder themes, though presented in a lighthearted way.
What themes are explored in the play?
Family, madness, dark comedy, murder, marriage, charity, and mistaken identity
Does the play's text contain offensive language?
No.
Does the play contain violence?
Yes, there are references to murder, visible dead bodies, and some mild physical comedy/scuffles.
Does the play contain the use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs?
Yes, there are references to poisoned wine and occasional drinking.
Does the play contain nudity or other adult situations?
No.