The Ventura College Circus Theater was transformed into a courtroom last weekend with members of the audience pressed into service as the jury in “Night of January 16th.” which continues through this weekend.

The audience was be guessing until the very end in this hilarious comedy that asks “where were you on the night of January 16th?”

Twelve members of the audience were selected to participate in the performance as members of the jury in the case of “The People of New York vs. Karen Andre.” Andre has been accused of murdering her former boss and lover, Bjorn Faulkner, on Jan. 16th. Audience members wrote their names on cards when they entered the theater, and 12 were chosen at random to be members of the jury.

“The show went very well this past weekend,” said Judy Gary director of “Night of January 16th”. “The audience really seemed to like it, and became very involved. Those selected for the jury were extremely attentive, took notes throughout the trial, and took their responsibility very seriously!” The prosecuting attorney and the defense attorney each present an equally compelling case, leaving the audience as much involved in deciding who is telling the truth, and who is lying as the jury and cast members will be.

“All the actors are working really hard,” said Gary. “The play requires a lot of focus and sharp timing from the actors and since the audience and actors are so close to each other, there needs to e a true sense of reality and honesty.” The cast members have been rehearsing since Oct. 10 and according to Gary.

Performances will be presented in the Ventura College Circus Theater starting Friday evening, Nov. 11 at 8:00 p.m. and will run through Nov. 20. For tickets and information call (805) 654-6462.