Not many people can say they’ve been murdered eight times in a row, but Russ Farmer is one of the few.
“It’s lot’s of fun,” laughs Farmer, co-founder and producer of Foote in the Door Productions.
A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder is Foote in the Door’s spring show, and Farmer plays eight characters that make up the D’ysquith family. Set in 1907 London, the show follows Monty Navarro, a poor working man who, after the death of his mother, learns he’s ninth in line to inherit the earldom of Highhurst, controlled by the wealthy D’Ysquith banking family. And, he’ll do anything to get rid of those between him and the title. The dark comedy was the most nominated show at the 2014 Tony Awards with 10 nominations and four wins.
“We’ve got a show that checks all the boxes,” says Farmer. “It’s funny, it has this brilliantly talented cast of singers and actors, it’s an elaborate stage show with a full set and an orchestra. And very importantly, it’s a financially accessible way of accessing incredibly high quality theatre.”
Farmer notes his favourite member of the family to play is the Lady Hyacinth D’Ysquith, but says you’ll have to come see the show to discover why. The show features a cast of 11 and crew of over 15 people.
“The show is based around a couple of principal male characters, but absolutely highlights a strong group of female characters,” says Farmer. “Two of the principal leads as well as four out of seven ensemble members, which is something that’s always important to us as representing diversity on stage.”
See A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder at the Old Strathcona Performing Arts Centre, located at 8426 Gateway Blvd NW, until June 18. Admission is $29.50 for adults and $24.50 for students and seniors.
