Metro Theatre welcomes spring with laughter as it presents Arsenic and Old Lace. The beloved classic comedy by Joseph Kesselring, directed by Catherine Morrison, is on stage April 4th to 26th.
The farcical black comedy expertly balances light and dark with its eccentric cast of murderous old ladies, an inebriated plastic surgeon, a Boris Karloff lookalike, bumbling cops, a delusional Teddy Roosevelt, and two hapless young lovers caught in the chaos. Arsenic and Old Lace is the perfect theatrical treat For fans of old Hollywood charm with a dash of devilish dark humor.
“Screwball comedy thrives on the absurdity of the situation rather than mocking individuals or institutions,” says Director Catherine Morrison. “The characters feel truthful, but the circumstances they find themselves in are delightfully ‘screwy’—allowing us to empathize while still laughing our heads off. In that way, it laid the foundation for what we now call ‘situation comedy’— where relatable characters find themselves in ridiculous circumstances.”
Originally premiering in 1941 at the height of World War II, Arsenic and Old Lace was an instant success, earning rave reviews and quickly being adapted into the iconic film, starring Cary Grant. Eight decades later, it remains a staple of regional and community theatres across North America. Just as audiences in 1941 sought an escape from the grim realities of the world, contemporary audiences will find solace in this throwback comedy, filled with interweaving plots, larger-than-life characters, and a sweet romantic heart.
The 14-person cast is filled with longtime audience favourites, including Michelle Collier and Sheila Keating as the wicked and hilarious Brewster sisters andJ.D. Deuckmann as their hapless theatre critic nephew. As always, the crew is a balance of industry veterans, such as Costume Designer Rene Schnidel and fresh faces like Stage Manager Shay Cameron. As the Winter chill slowly fades, Arsenic and Old Lace is guaranteed to be a perfect way to start your spring season.
Arsenic and Old Lace runs April 4 to 26, 2025 at Metro Theatre, 1370 Marine Drive SW. For show details and tickets visit metrotheatre.com or contact Metro’s box office at 604-266-7191