- A SUSPENSEFUL ONE-MAN MURDER MYSTERY
The Gay community in San Francisco was shocked and terrified by a series of murders between 1974-75 committed by a serial killer known as “The Doodler.” Believed to have killed between six and sixteen men, most of whom were gay, he was known for meeting his victims in bars, and sketching them before luring them to public places such as the beach or Golden Gate Park, engaging in sexual encounters, and then stabbing them to death. To this day, the case remains unsolved.
This true-life mystery makes for an excellent dramatic theater piece. Theatre Rhinoceros, which has been performing queer stories since 1977, presents this macabre tale as a one-man show featuring the talents of versatile actor John Fisher. Turning the “one-man” show on its ear, Fisher—in addition to playing multiple roles—serves as the stage manager, house manager, prop master, working the lights, etc. More than showcasing his multifaceted theatrical skills, it creates a palpable sense that, once he gets deep into the story, there is no one else at the theater to save you.
The play begins as a coming-of-age story of “Jack,” a young gay college student attending San Francisco State in the 1970s. While exploring the bars of Castro and Polk Street, Jack becomes both fascinated and frightened by the talk of “The Doodler,” whose crimes haunt the gay community. When one of Jack’s close friends becomes one of the Doodler’s victims, he becomes obsessed with tracking down the killer and stopping him.
This one-act takes its time to develop Jack’s story, building suspense as the Doodler seems to be drawing closer. Fisher’s commanding presence and talent are quite engaging in this chilling and compelling narrative. With its blend of historical intrigue and theatrical tension, The Doodler is a gripping production that is well worth experiencing—if you don’t mind looking over your shoulder at every sound you hear upon leaving the theatre.
photos by Scott Sidorsky
Doodler
Theatre Rhinoceros, 4229 18th St. in San Francisco
Thurs-Sat at 8; Sun at 3
ends on March 2, 2025
for tickets ($17.50-$35), visit The Rhino
