‘Columbo’ Origin Play Opens Sept. 13 At Elkhart Civic Theatre
Lt. Columbo (Brian Kozlowski, standing), right, questions Dr. Flemming (Colin Rusel) in Elkhart Civic Theatre’s production of “Prescription: Murder” opening Friday, Sept. 13, at the Bristol Opera House. Photos provided.
News Release
BRISTOL — “Prescription: Murder” opens Friday, Sept. 13, at the Bristol Opera House for a two-weekend run.
The theatrical origin story for the television series “Columbo,” “Prescription: Murder” centers on a brilliant psychiatrist and his mistress, who conspire to murder his neurotic, possessive wife. Their plan and their perfect alibi depend on a bizarre impersonation. Police Lt. Columbo must engage the psychiatrist in a duel of wits until the doctor succeeds in getting him removed from the case. Columbo has to figure out a way to trip up the pair for a surprising climax. The drama is rated PG.
“Prescription: Murder” is the basis for the pilot episode of the “Columbo” TV series, which starred Peter Falk. The play premiered in 1962 in San Francisco with Thomas Mitchell as Columbo, and became the TV movie of the same name in 1968 when Falk took over the role.
“Prescription: Murder” is directed by Dave Dufour, assisted by Marla Miller. The show is partially underwritten by Terry Trimmer.
The cast includes: Colin Rusel as Dr. Roy Flemming; Elise Davis as Mrs. Petrie; Annette Kaczanowski as Clair Flemming; Madeline Kauffman Hurst as Susan Hudson; Dustin Crump as Dave Gordon; Haden Knapp as delivery boy; and Brian Kozlowski as Lt. Columbo.
Tickets for “Prescription: Murder” are available at elkhartcivictheatre.org/rx or by phone by calling (574) 848-4116. Elkhart Civic Theatre’s season is underwritten by Laura and Jack Smith and Gaska Tape, with the support of media sponsor WNIT PBS Michiana.
Dr. Roy Flemming (Colin Rusel), left, and his wife, Claire (Annette Kaczanowski), share a close moment in “Prescription: Murder.”
Lt. Columbo (Brian Kozlowski, standing) interrogates Susan Hudson (Madeline Kauffman Hurst).
Tension brews between Dr. Roy Flemming (Colin Rusel), right, and his wife, Claire (Annette Kaczanowski).
