Act II Playhouse Presents MURRAY THE ELF Mystery

Act II Playhouse in Ambler presents the world premiere of Murray the Elf and the Case of the Horrible Holly Heist, the fifth and final mystery in the theatre's beloved local kids series, on stage Dec. 17-29.

Murray the Elf and the Case of the Horrible Holly Heist is written by Act II Communications and Education Director Bill D'Agostino and directed by Matt Silva.

This all-new mystery surrounds the stolen magical holly plant that helps Santa and his reindeer navigate the globe on Christmas night. When the holly is stolen, Christmas is once again in danger. Mrs. Claus calls Murray the Elf to Toyland .... but he'll need the kids' help to solve the case!

Every year since 2012, Act II has produced a new Murray the Elf mystery. Due to new commitments by the creative team, this will be the final mystery.

"After five years, Murray is hanging up his detective badge, notebook, and tights," D'Agostino said. "But he's going out with his biggest adventure yet!"

This new mystery is D'Agostino's ninth original comedy for kids produced in the last six seasons in theatres around Philadelphia.

Will Dennis once again plays Murray the Elf. As in the previous years, Andy Shaw plays all of the other characters, including returning favorites Candy Kane, Humphrey the Penguin, and Mrs. Claus. In the previous four mysteries, Shaw played more than 12 characters. New characters played by Shaw this year include the Easter Bunny, a lightening-fast Gingerbread Man, and a millennial elf named Jingle.

Last year, all performances of the Murray the Elf mystery sold out, so audiences are encouraged to buy their tickets soon!

Tickets for Murray the Elf and the Case of the Horrible Holly Heist are $12-$16. Tickets are available online at http://www.act2.org, by calling the Act II Playhouse box office at (215) 654-0200, or in person at 56 E. Butler Ave. in Ambler.

Murray the Elf mysteries are approximately one-hour long, and are designed for kids ages four and up. No knowledge of the previous mysteries is needed to enjoy this year's show.

The production team for Murray the Elf and the Case of the Horrible Holly Heist includes Colin McIlvaine (Scenic Design), Courtney Boches (Costume Design), Amanda Coffin (Lighting Design), Mikal Odom (Sound Design), Lauren Davenport (Production Assistant), and Carrie Nielsen (Dramaturg).

Photo Credit: Bill D'Agostino

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