By Kerry J Newstead
DUNNVILLE—As Dunnville Community Theatre wrapped up their 50th anniversary fall production, The Diary of a Burning Woman, the troupe was invited to perform this murder mystery play in front of residents of Grandview Lodge.
With the players dressed and their makeup applied, they were excited to perform in front of this appreciative audience on November 24, 2024.
DUNNVILLE—Shown during the play are characters Agnes Pennypincher with Lord Hiram comforting her after her husband Ebenezer Pennypincher was injured by an unknown attacker, with Charles Dickens looking over the scene. See Page 11 for the full story. —Haldimand Press photo by Kerry J Newstead. 
Lisa Lafemme (Claire Vander Pol) talking to the audience while taking notes to write her story for the local paper. 
Tim Tiny (played by Terry MacClellan) having a spot of whiskey while talking to the audience with his wife Bessie Tiny (played by Emily Mason). 
Ebenezer Pennypincher and his wife Agnes (played by Lee Smith and Diane Morris respectively) welcome Wanda Chivers to the play.
The play is loosely based on a Christmas Carol, but with a murderous twist. The audience had to follow along and take notes to solve the murder, which could be solved at the end of the play. Previous shows in the community included a dinner or lunch.
The theatre’s website describes the show as, “It’s Christmas Eve and the grand opening of ‘The Cooked Goose’ Tavern. Your hosts, Agnes and Ebenezer Pennypincher, are on hand to make sure you enjoy your evening. However, there is someone else attending who has a different idea.”
The director created a verbal slapstick essence with a cross between Murder She Wrote, Agatha Christie, and Charles Dickens himself.
The ghost of Sarah Cratchit, played by Judy Wenjina, was not seen for most of the play but offered clues to solving the murder. Wenjina was happy in helping the company to celebrate 50 years of memories.
The play’s director, Jean Furlong, has a long history with the theater.
“I first got involved with the Dunnville Community Theatre in the 70s. I took a little hiatus and I am back now,” she shared.
“I absolutely love seeing words from a page come to life and seeing characters develop. And coming out with costumes and all the rest of it – and watching the faces from the audience,” she concluded on the best part of bringing this play to her community.
