Your last name. We all have one. But have you done your research? Do you know its’ origin? Do you know your roots? Where you’re from?

Presently, our last name just differentiates us (more so or less; remember, I’m just stating my opinion here). We sometimes change it if we get hitched. We change it back if divorce strikes. We pass it onto our little peeps to claim them lovingly. We use it in our line of work, that dating website, and when we sign that dotted line for the mortgage. Nowadays, our names are mostly just for unsubstantial uses.

But since yesterday was Back to the Future Day (go Cubs! Just because it would be cool for the BttF stuff to happen) let’s rewind to the beginning of the 19th Century. Last names stood for a little bit more; they held much more meaning. Society actually cared what your last name was…your last name was so important.

Class. Wealth. Status. Origin. Your past…Your future.

*thanks to the relationship with the Straz Center & the Tampa Bay Bloggers, I had the opportunity to attend A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder in exchange for blog  & social media love; all opinions are my own.

And that my friends, leads us to A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder…

Cunning. Spunky. Witty. And a little bit naughty.

We meet Monty, a dashing fellow; who, due to his last name, has not had the most pleasant life. Unbeknowgst to him until after a family death, he has D’Ysquiths’ (a wealthy, banking family) blood running through his veins. He sets his sights high and aims to turn his poor past into a rich future ::: all because of a last name. Monty only has eight other D’Ysquiths that become road blocks (each of these played by a single actor — so humorous and a true display of wearing many hats!).

Act by act, D’Ysquiths begin to exit…but how??

Some ‘friends’ are made along the way. Cheers are made and cousins reunited. Trips are taken around the world. Honey is made and the flowers’ aroma is enjoyed. Things are better with a man and poison in your pocket becomes an everyday ordeal.

But Monty keeps his eyes on the prize…thanks to that new last name.

However, a lady in pink from the past — and a lady in blue from the present continue to distract young Monty and his plot to avenge his place in society.

You will have to visit the Straz Center to see for yourself how the future for Monty Navarro D’Ysquiths turns out! But hurry, you only have until this Sunday, October 25!

My two cents: Ray & I loved it! The opening scene was by far, our favorite ::: their dress & the set design resembled The Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom! (Yes, we fully understand we are addicted to Disney.) I loved the design of the stage and their use of lighting to show the levels of design; part of the stage even moved, giving it a different dimension. As for the music — wonderful, funny, and pleasing to this ‘past’ band nerd. The simplicity of a last name leading to murder — then love overcoming — then lust overcoming love — the show keeps you on your toes! *I will say that there was a little bit of naughtiness (which was hilarious) so keep that in mind if you plan to bring your little peeps.*

Caitlyn

Hey, I’m glad you’re here! I’m Caitlyn, a Tampa native with a love for all things social media, travel & tattoos. It’s no secret that I have a passion for social media - I’ve been at it for 11+ years! When I am not too busy supporting local companies as an SMM, I love to share foodie spots in Tampa and tips for your next Disney trip.