My overall impression
The instant Liz Eldridge as the murderess Lydia Trueblood steps on stage she has us in the palm of her hand. This musical romp inspired by the real life husband murdering Trueblood is not just an engaging story but the music and musical talent of Eldridge is phenomenal.
Musical accompaniment by Clara Dykstra (both accordion and trumpet) is cleverly added to the show by creating the character of Trueblood’s daughter Annabelle (she’s a mute who sings and swears) – which allows for the terrific musical and comedic duo to flourish. Dykstra wows with her musical talent but also charms with her adorably sweet face and dimples.
This show is simply devilishly fun entertainment. Director and co-writer Efrain Schunior keeps the pace ebbing and flowing playing to Eldridge and Dykstra’s strengths. The audience is included and played to the whole time, which encourages an abundance of whooping and hollering. You can’t help but be completely charmed by Eldridge’s Trueblood, her musical abilities and amazing voice. She fully embodies a sexy seductress with a taste for blood giving us no choice but to love every minute of the wicked journey.
I hope this show continues to develop and tour. It’s a perfect act for a cabaret/bar stage. This is one that I would eagerly watch again (and bring friends to). Next time I’ll make sure I have a whiskey for the full effect. Men, you might want to avoid ice picks and arsenic.
