The Thin Man

The Gates Mills Players invite audiences to have an insider’s experience of a live radio broadcast with one of the most iconic and acclaimed of the classics, The Thin Man. The story follows married, crime-busting duo, Nick and Nora as they crack the case with glamour, wit, banter and plenty of martinis along the way. The comedic whodunit is the original in what eventually became a series of six comedy-mystery films. The original stars of the show both on-screen and in the radio play broadcast are screen legends, William Powell (Nick) and Myrna Loy (Nora). (The Gates Mills Players are proud to have one of their own members working on the play who is actually a relative of the great Powell!) The film version landed four Oscar Nominations, including Best Picture. To help translate it to today’s terms, the film currently holds a 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes!

Director Susan Wasserman’s vision for the event will transport audience members back to a time when radio was king, big bands were the hottest ticket in town and swing dancing and martinis were in ubiquitous fashion. The director of last season’s hit, Love, Loss and What I Wore, says of her upcoming show, “I want to present a nostalgic feeling that will take the audience back in time. This witty, timeless classic will create an atmosphere for all ages to enjoy.”

A unique experience, indeed, the atmosphere of the entire evening will envelope audiences with the classic style and allure of years past. In Gates Mills, the stage will become the studio and attendees will become the live studio audience. Just as it was done in the live studio broadcasts in Hollywood, audiences will be cued during the performance to laugh and applaud by large cue cards. Actors will be using authentic 1930s and 40s studio microphones and a large soundboard will be in use during the production. Audiences will truly get to experience the insider’s view of a live broadcast. But the fun won’t end after the show. Following the performances, patrons will be able to explore the soundboard for themselves courtesy of Arts Radio Network. The C-Town Stompers will be sticking around to teach 40s style dance lessons. Wine and cheese will also be offered while getting the chance to mingle with cast members.