![A Brilliantly Executed Comedy]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1747355380/suffieldacademyorg/kv4uqzb7sw3kchrhlbwl/20250507_DeadlineSpringPlayHP.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1747355380/suffieldacademyorg/kv4uqzb7sw3kchrhlbwl/20250507_DeadlineSpringPlayHP.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1747355380/suffieldacademyorg/kv4uqzb7sw3kchrhlbwl/20250507_DeadlineSpringPlayHP.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1747355380/suffieldacademyorg/kv4uqzb7sw3kchrhlbwl/20250507_DeadlineSpringPlayHP.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1747355380/suffieldacademyorg/kv4uqzb7sw3kchrhlbwl/20250507_DeadlineSpringPlayHP.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1747355380/suffieldacademyorg/kv4uqzb7sw3kchrhlbwl/20250507_DeadlineSpringPlayHP.jpg","width":2200}])
Suffield Academy’s Performing Arts department brought the murder mystery comedy Deadline to life on stage. With its tangled plotlines, quick-witted dialogue, and cast of characters, Deadline offered a thrilling and hilarious experience for the audience—and a rewarding one for the cast. Set in a fog-shrouded island mansion in the North Atlantic, the play follows eight mystery writers who believe they've been invited for a tranquil 24-hour writing retreat. However, the true challenge is far more sinister: one of them is destined to be the victim, and another the killer. The twist? The writers must design and execute the perfect murder to win a million-dollar prize—if they can get away with it .
“From the very beginning, this cast approached the show with a sense of play, constantly finding new moments of comedy hidden in the chaos, confusion, and suspiciously timed exits,” said performing arts department chair Tom Dugan. “The cast had a blast leaning into the ridiculous, crafting performances that were just the right mix of over-the-top and strangely believable.”
The cast fully embraced the comedic chaos, working together to fine-tune moments of farce and mystery. For many students, the show was a chance to take risks, explore new forms of performance, and shine in unexpected ways.
Gabby Braswell ’28 shared, “Being in the play for the first time was an incredible experience. Our hardworking ensemble came together to put on a great show, and taking on a big role as a freshman was an amazing challenge that really helped me grow as an actor.” Sean Atkins ’26 also found the production deeply rewarding. “Deadline was such an amazing experience! I had such a great time getting out of my comfort zone and trying something new,” he said. “It opened me up to a brand new form of acting. I highly recommend taking part in something new!”
