‘Anatomy of a Murder’ play revives a piece of U.P. history

NEGAUNEE — A piece of UP history is being brought back to life for the next two weekends, as the Historic Vista Theatre in Negaunee presents ‘Anatomy of a Murder’.

The play, derived from a book, centers on a murder trial right here in the Upper Peninsula. Many locals immediately remember the Hollywood movie adaptation that was filmed on location back in 1959, of course in black and white.

The Vista Theatre’s production is tackling an artistic approach that has all set pieces and actors in black and white as well, and they believe they are the first local theatre to do so.

“After seeing the movie most recently, the director and the assistant director decided they’d really like to try it this way,” said Makeup Artist, Lex Exworthy. “We did some makeup tests a few weeks, and it looked great, so we went into it.”

“I’ve done a number of shows now, and this one’s been particularly interesting, because so many people have a personal connection to this  – they have family members who were in the movie, and they remember hearing stories about it,” said Director, Sophie Sam. “It’s just been really interesting and wonderful to hear all those stories from everyone.”

Anatomy of a Murder runs August 2nd-4th and 9th-11th at 7pm, and August 5th and 12th at 2pm. You can get your tickets online, or at Midtown Bakery in Negaunee, Rare Earth Goods in Ishpeming, or Snowbound Books in Marquette.