The cast of “The Game’s Afoot:” (Seated, L-R) Gabriella Ganoe, Chas Roades, and Lisa Singleton; (Back row, L to R) Wyckham Avery, Jonathan Kilgore, Noaah Steurer, Cassiane Mavromatis, and Nancy Blum. Photo by Nickolas Cummings.
What if the actor who plays Sherlock Holmes had a real murder to solve in his own mansion? That is exactly the question at the center of Ken Ludwig’s 2012 farce, “The Game’s Afoot.” Equal parts comedy and whodunit, the play presents a unique spin on the legendary detective. Rockville Little Theatre begins its 2026-2027 season with this award-winning mystery, skillfully directed by Laura W. Andruski. The production offers dramatic flair, surprising twists, and plenty of laughs.
…skillfully directed by Laura W. Andruski…dramatic flair, surprising twists, and plenty of laughs.
“The Game’s Afoot” revolves around William Gillette, a Broadway star who is world-renowned for portraying Sherlock Holmes. In December 1936, Gillette invites a group of fellow actor friends to spend Christmas weekend at his Connecticut mansion where they engage in parlor games during the festivities. The revelry takes an unforeseen turn when one of the house guests is murdered, and Gillette unexpectedly becomes a real-life Sherlock Holmes as he attempts to track down the killer. As the investigation unfolds, secrets, rivalries, and romantic complications come to light, further entangling the web of mystery.
In an outstanding portrayal of William Gillette, Chas Roades exudes confidence and sophistication. He captures both the warm and businesslike sides of his role, depicting Gillette as a gracious host and polished actor. Shifting between personas in mere seconds, Roades demonstrates striking versatility and colorfully conveys Gillette’s shock at the murder.
As Gillette’s actor friends, Jonathan Kilgore (Simon Bright), Gabrella Ganoe (Aggie Wheeler), Noah Steurer (Felix Geisel), and Lisa Singleton (Madge Geisel) each give brilliant performances. They express profound awe upon entering the mansion, immediately establishing the grandeur of their surroundings. Kilgore performs a spirited rendition of “Yes Sir, That’s My Baby,” showcasing his vocal and dance talents. He is equally charming when recalling humorous memories from Simon’s acting career. Ganoe heartbreakingly recounts Aggie’s tragic past, seamlessly shifting to excitement about her new marriage. Steurer delivers his lines with enthusiasm and hilariously interacts with inanimate objects during moments of frustration. Singleton’s bizarre behavior during the séance scene is comic gold, and she colorfully conveys exasperation at Felix’s confessions.
Cassiane Mavromatis is a riot as the despised and gossipy theater columnist, Daria Chase. She personifies the media guru with a haughty demeanor and serpent-tongued speech. Her slapstick antics elicit roaring laughter, while her impeccable comedic timing makes every moment land. The local police investigator, Inspector Goring, is entertainingly played by Wyckham Avery, whose exuberance and “no funny business” disposition bring a disarming charm to the character. Nancy Blum is refined and stately as William Gillette’s mother, Martha, reciting her lines with dry wit and sharp candor.
The costume team of Jennifer Morrissey and Becky Bucci outfits the cast in ornate period pieces. Sparkling ballgowns, sharp suits, and tailored business wear enhance the 1930s elegance. Jeff Asjes’ set design beautifully displays the Gillette mansion, accented by festive Christmas decorations that reflect the holiday setting. Lighting designer Elaine Ferrell creatively utilizes dim lighting to illustrate thunderstorms, while her flickering sequences accentuate the mansion’s mysterious atmosphere.
Rockville Little Theatre’s production of “The Game’s Afoot” is a murder masterpiece! With its intriguing plot, larger-than-life characters, and clever comedic moments, the production keeps audiences guessing—and laughing—until the final reveal. With the holidays quickly approaching, this play is the perfect outing to whet the appetite for the festive season. Whether you are devoted fan of Sherlock Holmes and classic mysteries, or are simply looking for an entertaining evening, this theatrical whirlwind is sure to supply plenty of surprises along the way.
Running Time: Approximately two hours and 45 minutes including a 15-minute intermission.
Advisory: Includes loud noises and simulated gunshots. An actor will appear in the house right aisle holding a prop weapon.
“The Game’s Afoot” runs through October 4, 2026 at the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theatre (at Rockville Civic Center Park), 603 Edmonston Drive, Rockville, MD 20851. Performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm. For more information and to purchase tickets, call the Box Office at 240.314.8690 or email boxoffice@rockvillemd.gov (Tuesdays-Saturdays, 2-6 pm), visit the Box Office prior to the performance, or go online.
