New YSU musical theater lecturer finds a ‘Clue’ waiting for him

Youngstown State University (YSU) is bringing the classic board game “Clue” to life on stage this November with a vibrant production of “Clue: The Musical.” The show, which opens Friday at the Ford Theater in Bliss Hall, promises an evening of mystery, humor, and audience participation, guided by a new musical theater lecturer who has a personal history with the beloved show. Dan Klimczak, recently appointed as a visiting lecturer of musical theater at YSU for the 2026-27 academic year, is directing the production and brings a unique perspective shaped by his previous involvement with the show.

A Familiar Favorite Returns to the YSU Stage

“Clue: The Musical” isn’t new to the theatrical landscape, but its enduring popularity stems from its clever adaptation of the iconic board game. The musical, with a book by Peter DePietro, lyrics by Tom Chiodo, and music by Galen Blum, Wayne Barker, and Vinnie Martucci, retains the core elements of the game: six suspects, six rooms in a mansion, and six weapons – all potential components of a deadly mystery. Audiences are invited to play along as Mr. Boddy hosts a fateful gathering, and three audience members’ card selections determine the ultimate solution to the whodunit.

Klimczak’s Connection to “Clue”

While Klimczak wasn't involved in the initial scheduling of “Clue,” his connection to the show runs deep. He recalls being captivated by “Clue” in high school and even attempted to persuade his theater teacher to let him direct it, a request met with good-natured dismissal. “During my very first meeting with everybody, my first interview, they told me, 'If you were to take this job, you’d be directing 'Clue,'” Klimczak explained. “That’s fantastic because I’ve done 'Clue.' I did it a couple years ago, and I’ve been in love with this show for probably nine or 10 years or so. It’s always been one of my favorites.” His previous experience includes serving as the scenic designer and male swing, covering all male roles, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the show's complexities. This experience has provided him with a unique insight into the challenges and rewards of bringing this particular production to life. He emphasizes the importance of respecting the source material while also allowing for creative interpretation and innovation.

The Significance of YSU’s Theater Program

YSU’s Department of Theatre and Dance has a long and rich history within the Youngstown community. The Ford Theater, where “Clue” will be performed, is a cornerstone of this tradition, providing a vital space for student actors, designers, and technicians to hone their craft. The program’s commitment to producing diverse and engaging theatrical experiences contributes significantly to the cultural vibrancy of the region. YSU’s location in the Mahoning Valley means the theater program serves as a crucial cultural hub for a region that often faces economic challenges. The ability to offer accessible and high-quality theatrical productions is a source of pride for the university and a vital resource for the community. Klimczak’s arrival as a visiting lecturer underscores YSU’s dedication to attracting talented faculty and providing students with exceptional training and opportunities. The production of “Clue” itself represents a chance for students to engage with a beloved and complex piece of theatrical history, while also pushing their creative boundaries.

The Challenge of Audience Interaction

What makes “Clue: The Musical” particularly challenging is its inherent unpredictability. With 216 possible combinations of murderer, weapon, and room determined by audience participation, each performance is unique. “This show is difficult for my cast,” Klimczak said. “It changes every single night, and nobody knows how it changes until we start the show.” This element of surprise demands a high level of adaptability and quick thinking from the performers, a challenge Klimczak embraces through his directing style. He emphasizes the importance of improvisation and ensemble work, encouraging the cast to react authentically to the unfolding mystery. The audience isn't just watching; they are actively participating in shaping the narrative. This constant need for flexibility requires a deep understanding of the material and a strong sense of trust among the cast members. The potential for unexpected outcomes also adds an element of excitement and spontaneity that keeps both the performers and the audience engaged.

The Cast and Creative Team

The student cast brings a dynamic energy to the production, with Noah Dudai as Mr. Boddy, Natalie Horvath as Mrs. Peacock, Robert Channell as Mr. Green, Sam Nabring as Colonel Mustard, Jacora Goode as Miss Scarlett, Benjamin Podnar as Mrs. White, Karianne Rateno as the Detective, Owen Mills as Professor Plum, Landon Eli as the male swing, and Cadence Watson as the female swing. The creative team complements the cast’s talent with a visually striking design. Todd Dicken’s scenic design incorporates recognizable elements from the board game, including the distinctive yellow blocks lining the hallways and a green color scheme. Katherine Garlick is responsible for the costume design, Gunnar Carwille for lighting, and Jonathan Zelezniak serves as technical and lighting advisor.

Supporting Student Talent: The Production Crew

Beyond the actors, the production of “Clue” provides invaluable experience for a team of student designers and technicians. Eric Babble’s work as conductor and Joe Spurio’s role as music supervisor are critical to the show’s musical success. Spurio's expertise in music direction ensures the score is brought to life with precision and emotion, while Babble's conducting skills shape the overall musical landscape of the production. Jessica Sprague’s expertise as stage manager ensures the smooth and efficient running of the production, a role that requires exceptional organizational skills and the ability to handle unexpected challenges. These roles offer students practical, hands-on training in their chosen fields, preparing them for future careers in the performing arts. The collaboration between faculty and students fosters a supportive and enriching learning environment, allowing students to learn from experienced professionals while contributing their own creativity and talent to the production. Many of these students hope to pursue professional careers in theater after graduation, and this experience is a key stepping stone in that journey.

Staying True to the Source Material

Klimczak emphasizes that the musical is a faithful adaptation of the board game, not the 1985 film “Clue: The Movie.” This commitment to the source material is evident in the set design, which includes a functional pool table in the billiard room – a detail directly inspired by the board game. “It is 100% based on Clue the board game, and I think that audiences coming to see it will definitely get that vibe from it,” Klimczak stated. The production aims to capture the essence of the game’s playful mystery and encourage audience engagement. The visual cues and references to the game's mechanics are intended to create a sense of nostalgia and familiarity for longtime fans, while also introducing the story to a new generation.

What to Expect After the Curtain Falls

Following the final performance on November 22nd, the YSU Department of Theatre and Dance will be collecting audience feedback through surveys and social media channels. This information will be valuable in assessing the success of the production and informing future programming decisions. Furthermore, the students involved in “Clue” will have the opportunity to reflect on their experiences through post-production workshops and critiques, solidifying their skills and preparing them for future theatrical endeavors. The production also serves as a springboard for potential collaborations between YSU and local community organizations, fostering a stronger connection between the university and the wider Youngstown area. The department hopes to continue offering opportunities for students to engage with diverse theatrical genres and to contribute to the cultural life of the region.

Ticket Information and Accessibility

Tickets for “Clue: The Musical” are available online at www.ysu.tix.com and by calling 330-941-3105. Pricing is as follows: $18 for adults, $14 for senior citizens and non-YSU students, $10 for YSU faculty and staff, $7 for children ages 18 and younger, and free for YSU students with a valid ID. The Ford Theater is committed to providing accessible performances for all audience members. Patrons with disabilities are encouraged to contact the box office in advance to arrange for accommodations, such as wheelchair seating or assistive listening devices. The university strives to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone who wishes to experience the power of live theater.