Updated on: October 12, 2024 8:27 am GMT
The coastal town of Gibsons is abuzz with excitement as the premiere of the new crime drama series Murder in a Small Town approaches. Set to air on September 24, this show not only showcases local talent but also puts the spotlight on the picturesque Sunshine Coast, where much of the filming took place. With a community viewing party planned, residents are eager to experience the series together, celebrating the positive impact the production has had on their town.
Overview of Murder in a Small Town
The series, based on novels by Laurali Rose “Bunny” Wright, follows the journey of detective Karl Alberg, portrayed by Rossif Sutherland. Over the course of eight episodes, audiences will delve into a gripping story that begins with the two-part premiere titled “The Suspect,” directed by Milan Cheylov.
- Premiere Date: September 24
- Network: FOX in the U.S. and Global in Canada
- Filming Locations: Sunshine Coast, primarily Gibsons
- Episodes: Eight-part series
- Main Cast:
- Rossif Sutherland as Detective Karl Alberg
- Kristin Kreuk as Cassandra Mitchell
- Mya Lowe as Corporal Edwina Yen
- Jonathan Whitesell as Riley Erlandson
The beautiful backdrop of Gibsons serves as a fictional setting for the series, enhancing its atmosphere while adding a layer of authenticity.
Local Involvement and Community Response
The filming process brought over 120 cast and crew members to the Sunshine Coast for five months, starting in January. The production also engaged the community, with more than 400 locals auditioning for extra roles. This interaction left a lasting impression on both the cast and the people of Gibsons.
Jason “Rowdy” Rody, who was involved in coordinating background action during filming, shared his sentiments. “I had some of the best times I’ve had on set during this show,” he noted.
Vineet Miglani, co-owner of the High Beam Dreams event venue, expressed gratitude for the production’s impact on the community. “We witnessed the positive benefits that the production brought to our community,” Miglani said, referring to the upcoming viewing party at the venue where several key scenes were filmed.
Attendance at the viewing party is by donation, and Miglani stated, “Over 70 people have already responded to our online invitation.” The community’s enthusiasm underscores how much the series means to local residents.
The Cast and Their Journeys
Murder in a Small Town features an impressive cast, with many actors having strong ties to the region.
- Rossif Sutherland: Known for his thoughtful portrayal of Detective Alberg, he comes from a lineage of entertainment—his father is acclaimed actor Donald Sutherland.
- Kristin Kreuk: Familiar to audiences as Lana Lang from Smallville, Kreuk plays Alberg’s love interest, adding depth to the emotional storyline.
- Mya Lowe: A versatile hip hop dancer and actress, Lowe takes on the role of Corporal Edwina Yen, Alberg’s police partner.
- Jonathan Whitesell: Filling the shoes of Riley Erlandson, his career started with a notable role in The X-Files.
Many cast members have called the experience wonderful, citing the professionalism and kindness of the crew. Melissah Charboneau, a local resident and regular extra, remarked on the supportive atmosphere. “The whole crew was fantastic to work with,” she shared, also noting how this opportunity helped her to find further roles in the film industry.
The Significance of the Premiere
The premiere of Murder in a Small Town represents not just the launch of a series but a celebration of the local community and its talents. With its roots firmly set in the Sunshine Coast, the show brings recognition to the region while creating opportunities for aspiring actors.
The first episode will introduce viewers to the unraveling mystery and dynamics between characters, setting the stage for the rest of the season. With the combination of suspenseful storytelling and local talent, it is poised to captivate audiences.
“The cast, the crew, the directors, everybody was just fantastic to work with,” Charboneau emphasized, highlighting the collaborative spirit that defined the series’ production.
Conclusion
As the countdown begins to the premiere of Murder in a Small Town, the excitement in Gibsons is palpable. The community viewing party reflects a shared anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling addition to the crime drama landscape. With its local roots and compelling storytelling, the series is set to be a significant moment for both television and the Sunshine Coast community. Visitors interested in attending the viewing event can find more details on the High Beam Dreams Facebook page.
This new series shows off the lively culture of Gibsons and the amazing talent found there. It invites viewers to join in on an exciting story inspired by a popular Canadian writer.