UWF theatre stages $22 musical about a young man who kills his way to an earldom

The University of West Florida Department of Theatre will present a production of 'A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder' starting Friday, Nov. 6. The run continues through Sunday, Nov. 15, with performances held in the Besser Studio Theatre inside the UWF Center for Fine and Performing Arts.

The musical tells the story of Monty Navarro, a poor young man who learns he is ninth in line for an earldom. Believing he has little chance to inherit the fortune, Monty decides to eliminate the people ahead of him in the succession. The plot also involves a romance with Phoebe and a connection with Sibella. The show is based on the 1907 novel 'Israel Rank: The Autobiography of a Criminal' by Roy Horniman.

Robert L. Freedman wrote the book and lyrics for the production. Steven Lutvak composed the music and additional lyrics. Music Theatre International licenses the show, which has won four Tony Awards. Associate professor Sara Schoch, who heads the BFA Musical Theatre program, directs the production.

Constance R. Smith handles the scenic design. Elise Klein serves as the assistant designer and scenic charge artist. Student Drew McCrary designs the lighting. Senior Annaleese Fraser designs the costumes. Fraser noted, 'I am so thankful for the opportunity to design such a fun musical! This show features a lot of moving pieces and silly moments, and I am beyond excited to see it all come together!'

Tickets cost $22 for adults. Senior citizens and active military members pay $18. Non-UWF students, UWF faculty, and staff pay $16. Children and high school students pay $9. UWF students enter free with their ArgoCard. Patrons can buy tickets at the CFPA Box Office in Building 82, by calling 850.857.6285, or online at uwf.edu/cfpa.

The theater advises that the show contains adult subject matter and may not suit every audience. Because of the seating arrangement, latecomers must wait until intermission to enter the auditorium. Shows start at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2:30 p.m. on Sundays.