‘Noises Off’ to open at Clear Space Theatre Jan. 23 in Rehoboth
The curtain will rise on Clear Space Theatre Company’s 2026 season with the quintessential British farce, “Noises Off,” opening at 7 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23, at 20 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach.
Audiences have 15 chances to catch this comedic classic, with performances scheduled through Sunday, Feb. 15.
“Noises Off” is a play-within-a-play about a team of hapless actors attempting to mount the (very fictional) farce “Nothing On.” Chaos ensues as missed cues, romantic mishaps, and an increasingly aggressive plate of sardines seem to stand in their way. The comedy takes audiences from backstage to onstage and back again. As things spiral out of control, audiences learn that the age-old-trope, “The show must go on,” is true – even when everything goes wrong in the most spectacular fashion.
Donald Garverick directs a dynamic cast of nine actors. Performers returning to Clear Space for this production include Devon Spencer Lynch, Rick Nazzarro, Ernie Ritchie, Christina Rodden and Elizabeth Roe. Artists making their Clear Space cast debut include Tyler DiNinno, Sydney Freihofer, Peter Herrick and Julia Smouse. Understudying the principal cast are Matty Brown, Mary Gresock, Alan Krisfalusi and Caitlin Wood.
Garverick said, “As a longtime fan of Michael Frayn’s ‘Noises Off,’ getting the chance to direct this farcical masterpiece at Clear Space Theatre Company is a dream come true. ‘Noises Off’ takes you behind the scenes of the fictional British comedy, ‘Nothing On,’ where the backstage antics are crazier than those onstage. This hilarious farce is a loving valentine to the zany people who make live theater happen, both onstage and off. Prepare for an evening of wild hijinks, shenanigans, mistaken identities, slamming doors and a whole lot of misplaced sardines!”
The production features an original revolving set designed by Mark Lenard, costume design by Mary Beth Powell and lighting design by Brendan Smith. Sound design is by Justin Jewell, production manager, and Aleta Thompson designs the production’s props. Rece Pope is stage manager, with Emily Swett as assistant stage manager and assistant director.
“We hope audiences fall in love with this joyful and zany comedy,” said Joe Gfaller, Clear Space managing director. “’Noises Off’ has remained a classic for over 40 years for good reason. It gives a remarkable glimpse behind the curtain of bringing a play to life – and between all the laughter, audiences discover some of the wild wonder that lives at the heart of being a theater-maker.”
