Calabasas High School’s annual Murder Mystery Night is back for 2026, and this year’s production is taking the audience back to the 1800s of the Wild West. With auditions beginning this week on April 7th and 8th, students have the opportunity to be a part of one of the school’s most interactive and student-driven productions.
Unlike traditional theater productions, Murder Mystery Night is written, produced, and performed largely by students. Most importantly, every year features a completely original script.
This year’s show, “Wanted: Dead or More Dead,” breaks new ground as the first Western-themed mystery in recent years. The script was put together by the returning writer of last year’s show, Ariela Papp, as well as Tyler and Nathaniel Bailin.
The creative team is led by Director Joshua Kleinman, alongside Assistant Director Charli Stone and Producer Luchiana Rodriguez. Supporting them are Assistant Producer Oliver Vasiman, Technical Directors Eamon Wagner and Jade Bassis, Head of Costumes Dylan Haney, and Head of Hair and Makeup Mia Kay.
According to co-writer Tyler Bailin, the Western setting immediately sets this year’s show apart.
“It’s a Western, we got to do a lot of fun stuff parodying the tropes, and actors from those movies. Ultimately, though, I think the gimmick of the show is a lot less important than people make it out to be,” Bailin said.
But beyond the theme, Tyler emphasized his excitement with the real focus on stronger character development and deeper relationships than in previous years. Director Joshua Kleinman highlighted the script’s unique tone, describing the mix of 1800s saloon life and modern humor.
“It’s a super fun script for all ages, and even if someone isn’t a fan of westerns, I think everyone could find something to laugh about,” Kleinman explained.
From a technical standpoint, Jade Bassis noted that the time period opens up creative responsibilities.
“The time period it’s set in gives us a lot of creative potential when it comes to designing and decorating the set, as Westerns aren’t very common in high school plays,” said Bassis.
Auditions will take place on April 7th in the MPR and April 8th in the PAEC Black Box, both from 3:45-5:45 pm, with callbacks on April 9th. The creative team is looking for students who are willing to take risks and fully commit to their characters.
Kleinman emphasized the importance of individuality.
“All the characters in the script are so unique with their own voices, wants, and characterizations, I really want that to shine through for our potential actors,” said Kleinman.
Bailin added that strong voices and confidence can go a long way.
“If you can turn off the voice in your head long enough to make really bold, motivated choices with your character, you’ll at least get a callback,” Bailin says.
Despite being a student-run production, the team is aiming high this year. With a unique Western theme and an interactive format that brings the audience into the story, this year’s Murder Mystery Night promises to be one of CHS’s most engaging events.
For students interested in acting or simply trying something new, auditions this week offer a chance to step into the spotlight and help bring the Wild West mystery to life.
