Q The title ‘Curtains’ evokes dual concepts: the theatrical world and slang for a violent end. What’s the comedy about?
A It’s a musical whodunit, said actress Christine Sherrill. A story of a play within a play, it tells of a pre-Broadway tryout of a production that they’re trying to start up (called) ‘Robbin’ Hood of the Old West.’ At the top of the show, the leading lady (the talent-impaired Jessica played by Paula Scrofano) is murdered and they spend the rest of the show trying to figure out who is doing in their cast and crew. It has a lot of qualities of the old American musical theater, which is what I love about it.

Q You have two roles in the show, correct?
A I play the lyricist Georgia Hendricks. I end up stepping in for Jessica and I take over her role as saloon owner, a brazen sort of woman. People are a little suspicious of me here or there. Every character at some point is suspected and that keeps the audience intrigued. The show is really about the detective Cioffi who comes in to solve the issues (and falls in love with the theatrical process and actress Niki).

Q How has noted director William Brown put a fresh spin on the show? 
A One being choreography. Choreographer Linda Parsons had the option to use that original choreography and replicate it. We built on what took place on Broadway. Another being Sean Fortunato (the actor who plays Cioffi), who takes a different approach to that character and one that we feel — and that the audience is appreciating — works for this show. To be directed by William Brown is a fantastic thing; he’s had such a huge career.

Q What helps make the show, which is set in 1959, a standout?
A Very smartly written ... it’s a musical comedy with the thrill of a whodunit, which is a surprising aspect of it. For the actors, the suspense wasn’t (apparent) until we ran it in front of an audience. It has a lot of throwbacks to the old movie musical. One of my favorite scenes is a duet between Cioffi and Niki really reminiscent of that time.

Q Is this the first chance to catch the musical since its Broadway run?
A The show is making its first regional debut. That’s a huge opportunity for Chicago audience members.

SEE THE PLAY
WHAT “Curtains,” a comic whodunit with music and lyrics by Fred Ebb and John Kander (“Cabaret” and “Chicago”), kicks off Drury Lane Oakbrook’s 25th anniversary season.
WHERE 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace; (630) 530-0111
WHEN Wednesday through Sunday, now through May 17
HOW MUCH $29 to $56, show only and dinner packages; www.drurylaneoakbrook.com