Theatre institute presents ‘Shear Madness’ — and it’s set on Hilton Head

Southeastern Summer Theatre Institute, now in its 10th season, will present America’s longest-running play, “Shear Madness,” at the Main Street Theatre on Hilton Head Island.

With a professional six-member cast direct from New York City, the murder-mystery comedy features hysterical characters working in a local, not-so-typical hair salon.

SSTI’s “Shear Madness” opens at 8 p.m. July 18. Blake White, locally known as the founding artistic and executive director of Lean Ensemble Theater, is the director of this production.

It’s a typical day in a not-so-typical Hilton Head Island hair salon, when suddenly the old lady upstairs is mysteriously murdered, and everyone is dying to know “whodunit.” The audience combs through clues, questioning each suspect to crack the case. The show is different every time you see it.

“I knew I wanted to bring this show to Hilton Head after seeing the play, but unlike most shows, rights are highly controlled and there is a rigorous process which included sending our director to work with the D.C. ‘Shear Madness’ company at the Kennedy Center,” producer Benjamin Wolfe said.

“I spent many days learning the nuances of how each performance of the play may unfold, which truly depends on the audience interaction,” said White. “One of the interesting facets of this show is that it is always set locally, so we are definitely on Hilton Head Island. Because the participation of the audience changes the direction of the show each performance, the actors need to react to whatever situation arises. It’s a delightful two hours where we invite the audience to laugh and play with us.”

“Shear Madness” runs July 18 through Aug. 6. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the theater, 3000 Main St. Tickets are $40 for adults and $20 for students.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.HHISummerMusicals.com or by calling 866-749-2228.

This story was originally published July 13, 2017 at 11:19 AM with the headline "Theatre institute presents ‘Shear Madness’ — and it’s set on Hilton Head."