On Saturday, October 24, The Barnett Homestead will be the scene for a “whodunit” murder mystery play presented by Vintage Voices, “Of Rats and Relatives.” Historic interpreters Phyllis Chapman, Norma Peebles and Howie Lederer will be joined by a group of rascally characters in a three-dimensional, audience-participating production with dead bodies, a stolen
jewel and many dark secrets. The action is set in the 1890s, and the actors and the audience will move about the Homestead and the grounds as the mystery unravels to its surprising conclusion.
In addition to the members of Vintage Voices, the other actors are John Comerro of Cambridge, Matt Christian and Nick Toole of the Clifton Park area, Cristi LaMontaigne, Alan Webster and Karen Day from Berlin and Petersburgh and Mattie Whitman, Diandra Sawyer, Nora Senecal and Mike Chapman from Hoosick Falls. Their portrayal of warring relatives, a Civil War veteran, a haughty housekeeper and a nosy aunt, among others, will keep the audience guessing as to “who- dunit?”
Two performances are scheduled – one at 2 pm and the second at 4:30 pm. Admission is $8 per person; reservations are recommended since space and seating is limited. Reserved seats will be held until 15 minutes before the performances. Loud noises and scary situations make the production unsuitable for young children. To make reservations, call 518-686-4438 or 802-442-8472. The Homestead Gift Shop will be open before and after performances, featuring a special end-of-season sale on selected items.
The Barnett Homestead is located off Route 67 in Walloomsac on Caretaker’s Road, just opposite the entrance to the Bennington Battlefield New York State Historic Site.