Ravenscroft - review
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Jane Zussman
Oct 9, 2025, 11:38:17 PM (2 days ago) Oct 9
to Jane Zussman
Riverwalk’s Ravenscroft is a twisted tale — more than twisted — perhaps crocheted? by the suspiciously deft Mrs. French? (Kayla Henry)
Director Amanda Macomber is making her Riverwalk directorial debut with this “darkly comedic, and suspenseful exploration of the human psyche, layered with mystery, deception and a touch of the macabre.” It has some mature themes that make it inappropriate for young children — but it’s an engaging ride that feels easy to follow so you THINK you know who-done-it. The handsome handyman has been murdered and all five of the Ravenscroft resident ladies have a motive to kill, and/or a reason to lie.
Ravenscroft is one of Don Nigro’s series of Inspector Ruffing plays. This one was adapted into the 1999 film The Manor, with Peter O’Toole. It’s an intricate web of lies and half truths spun around our stalwart Inspector, at Riverwalk, the charming but increasingly frustrated and overwhelmed Jeff Kennedy.
The 1905 manor house is created by period furniture with walls decorated by empty picture frames — perhaps a hint that everybody will be framing everybody else? (Set Design, Leroy Cupp) Amanda has created a sense of being surrounded and contained by parking the “offstage” characters around the edges of the stage, crocheting, sleeping, waiting to be summoned for questioning. The period costumes and wigs add to the sense of the era. (Costumes Amanda Macomber; wigs Kayla Henry)
What makes this production pop is the entertaining diversity of characters. In addition to our stalwart Inspector, we have the mysterious governess played by Naomi “Mani” Collazo Coca with a sultry Viennese accent. Mrs. Ravenscroft showcases newcomer to Riverwalk, Savannah Jordan, in a haughty, horny, comic role that adds many laughs. Ira Elena Billard is a hoot as the languid, flirty teenage daughter. Mrs. French is a force (Kayla Henry) adding to the troubles of adorably whimpery, confused and oppressed maid, Dolly, well played by Sarah Lehman.
Ravenscroft is two hours plus a 15 minute intermission. It’s in Riverwalk’s Dart Black Box stage, which is general seating and a smaller space that can easily sell out. Arrive early!. Tix in advance assures admission. It continues Thursdays through Sundays through October 19.
More Riverwalk Stuff:
Cursed Cabaret: Under the Ghost Light offers wicked music and scary stories directed by Aaron Wittbrodt runs October 24-25 at 8 pm. Tickets at https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?show=301981
The Rocky Horror Picture Show movie will be hosted by Riverwalk (Matt Ottinger!) for both a 6pm and 9pm show on Halloween night at Grewal Hall downtown. Tickets at
Jane Zussman
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