Inspired by the book Devil in the White City, which chronicled the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago and the murderous H.S. Holmes, Ben Asaykwee has composed a highly entertaining and terrifying musical, White City Murder.
A two person show, Asaykwee shares the stage at the Irvington Lodge with Claire Wilcher, possibly one of the best actress/singer/improv artists working in Indianapolis. Both fearlessly tackle original songs that tell the story of both the Exposition and the horrifying murders in Holmes’ “Castle” just three miles away. They also employ repeaters — singing rhythmic backgrounds or a chord, overlaying them, then live singing over the backgrounds in front of the audience. The non-obtrusive use of the technology adds richness to the performances. Both Asaykwee and Wilcher can belt out a tune, whether it’s a vigorous circus-inspired ditty or a soul-searching lament about a husband who abandons his first wife to embark on a horrifying quest for money and murder.
The musical recounts Holmes’ murder spree which started before the Exposition, with Asaykwee and Wilcher taking turns portraying the murderer, signified by a red glove. A combination of dialogue and songs, the show moves quickly through the insurance schemes, fraud, and con artistry of Holmes. The murders are noted by a number written on a large drawing pad, and the sheet violently ripped and thrown aside. It adds up to two hours of an emotional rollercoaster, ending with the final murder of Howard Pitezel in a cottage in Irvington — just a few blocks from where the show is performed — his capture, trial and execution.
Based on the true story of America’s first known serial killer, White City Murder is not exactly a light-hearted romp, but the audience will leave entertained and educated on a terrifying chapter in American history.
White City Murder continues at the Irvington Lodge (5515 E. Washington St.) March 26 at 8 p.m. March 31 at 7:30 p.m. April 1 at 7:30 p.m. and April 2 at 8 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended; most shows have been selling out fast. Tickets are available online at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/2506676.
