Willowbrook to present winter play, ‘Arsenic and Old Lace’

Willowbrook students rehearse a scene from the school's upcoming winter play, “Arsenic and Old Lace.” Performances will take place on Feb. 6, 7 and 8. Pictured are (from left) senior Emily O’Brochta (Martha Brewster), freshman Amelia Tortorici (Abby Brewster), junior Sean Shepherd (Teddy Brewster), junior Michael Poirier (Mortimer Brewster) and junior Ryan Brown (Jonathan Brewster).

(From left) Willowbrook senior Emily O’Brochta (Martha Brewster), junior Michael Poirier (Mortimer Brewster) and freshman Amelia Tortorici (Abby Brewster) rehearse a scene from the school's upcoming winter play, “Arsenic and Old Lace.” Performances will take place on Feb. 6, 7 and 8.

Willowbrook students who are members of the paint crew stand by the sign they created to promote the school's upcoming winter play, “Arsenic and Old Lace.” Performances will take place on Feb. 6, 7 and 8.

Willowbrook Theatre invites you to delight in a comedic farce as the school presents its winter play, “Arsenic and Old Lace” by Joseph Kesselring.

The show follows several members of the Brewster family living in New York in the 1940s and tells their journey of murder and madness and how their secrets come to light through a comedy of errors. Mortimer Brewster discovers his two elderly aunts, Abby and Martha Brewster, have been poisoning older gentlemen whom they feel are lonely and would be happier to not be alive. Mortimer also finds out his brother Jonathan is hiding a dark secret. Although the theme of the production might seem heavy, it’s shown in a lighthearted nature and is suitable for children.

“I hope the audience enjoys a couple of laughs, as this play has lots of good jokes,” said Willowbrook junior Ryan Brown, who plays Jonathan. “There also is a fun twist at the end.”

Willowbrook junior Michael Poirier, who plays Mortimer, agreed.

“You never know what’s going to happen next,” he said. “It’s a very engaging show, and there’s never a dull moment. There’s definitely an element of surprise.”

Willowbrook freshman Amelia Tortorici and senior Emily O’Brochta portray Abby and Martha, respectively. They said the performance is very visual and is filled with small, subtle “hints” along the way.

Director Sara Corkery said she chose “Arsenic and Old Lace” to expose the actors to a different era and to a classic story they might not know as well.

“There’s something really special about a well-crafted play,” she said. “For the audience, it’s a nice break from the winter weather to revel in a few laughs.”

“Arsenic and Old Lace”

When: 7 p.m. Feb. 6, 7 and 8

Where: Willowbrook, 1250 S. Ardmore Ave. in Villa Park

Tickets: Tickets will be available to buy at the door and cost $7 for adults, $5 for students and children 12 years old and older, $3 with an Activity Pass and are free with a District 88 Senior Gold Card and for children younger than 12 years old

For questions or more information: Contact Director Sara Corkery at scorkery@dupage88.net