The Red Claw

by M. K. Wessel

A mysterious murderer on the loose. A grizzled ex-detective with a traumatic past. And a plucky young journalist who throws them together — all on Christmas Eve!

In this boisterous parody of film noir, an unlikely duo races against the clock to track down a murderer known only as The Red Claw. Surrounded by a cast of odd and uncooperative suspects — not to mention a masked vigilante — Detective Shorthair must...

A mysterious murderer on the loose. A grizzled ex-detective with a traumatic past. And a plucky young journalist who throws them together — all on Christmas Eve!

In this boisterous parody of film noir, an unlikely duo races against the clock to track down a murderer known only as The Red Claw. Surrounded by a cast of odd and uncooperative suspects — not to mention a masked vigilante — Detective Shorthair must make peace with his past before it’s too late. Framed by audience asides and riddled with ridiculous detective work, this play mixes together thrilling action, comedic gags, and a healthy dose of Christmas cheer.

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The Red Claw

Character Information

3F, 4M - but gender-bent casting is encouraged. (i.e. Do the drag show version. I beg.)

Double-casting: If a 5-person cast is neccessary, doubling is possible for Lucy & Marco; and Klaus & Catalina.

For 4-person cast, contact playwright.
  • Detective Shorthair
    ex-detective, alcoholic, gruff but honorable, has long hair
    any
    Male
  • George
    plucky young journalist looking for her big break
    20s-30s
    Female
  • Klaus
    another detective, used to be Shorthair’s partner
    20s-40s
    Male
  • Marco
    resourceful, clever, great hair, Latino or Spanish; Shorthair’s lover
    20s-40s
    Latino -- Spanish
    Male
    Can be played by:
    • Actor Race/Ethnic Identity
      Latinx/o/a or Hispanic
  • Jackalope
    bartender, jack-of-all-trades, morally grey multitasker
    adult
    Male or gender non-conforming
  • Catalina
    cat burglar, femme fatale, likes to lounge on top of pianos
    Originally written for a drag performer, but open to cast any gender.
    20s-40s
    Female
  • Lucy Goose
    awkward duckling, desperate for friends, would talk a lot if you let her
    20s-30s
    Female or gender non-conforming

Development History

  • Reading, Lyric Reperatory Company, 2023
  • Reading, Theatre of Convenience (Virtual), 2023

Production History

  • University, University of Hawai'i at Mānoa, TADA's 25-Hour Play Festival, 2019

Awards

  • Long-Listed: 22nd Annual New Play Festival
    Centre Stage
    2024