Art takes many forms, and the label of artist can encompass painting, photography, music, or theatre. Recently, I had the pleasure of spending time with Dave Ellis, the writer and director behind the murder mystery The Mystery at Thade Mansion. First performed in 2007, the production returned to the stage in 2025 with some minor adjustments, retaining its charm and intrigue.

Set in Argentina, the play captures the essence of classic murder mysteries. The story unfolds in an old mansion filled with guests, where the inevitable occurs: a character meets an untimely demise. The audience is invited to take on the role of detective, piecing together clues as they are revealed.

Dave Ellis has a writing style reminiscent of Agatha Christie, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, and Raymond Chandler. His intricate storytelling keeps viewers engaged as they work to solve the crime. Born in London, Ontario, Dave spent his early years in Kirkland Lake before moving with his family to Toronto, where his father managed a car dealership.

During high school at Michael Power, Dave met Susan, who attended a neighbouring school. Their connection blossomed, and the two became inseparable. Dave worked at the Red Barn hamburger chain, partly owned by Tim Horton, while playing guitar in a rock and roll band. Unlike most teenage groups, his band enjoyed real success, touring Ontario from 1965 to 1968. The road eventually lost its allure, and Dave chose to settle down with Susan, who later became his wife.

Dave pursued education and attended Teachers College, securing a position with the Metropolitan Separate School Board. The couple moved to Whitby, near his first teaching assignment in Guildwood Village. Teaching brought Dave immense satisfaction, and by 1973 the growing family of five settled in Blackstock. Susan also worked as a special education teacher. As the years passed, Dave advanced to vice principal and principal before the family relocated to Port Perry, where they remain today.

Retirement did not end Dave’s career. He continued as a supply teacher for ten years, staying connected to education. During this time, he met Ed Daigle, a fellow theatre enthusiast, and the two established a theatre company. Their efforts provided opportunities for aspiring actors across Durham Region and produced numerous dinner theatre performances that drew enthusiastic audiences.

They also launched workshops aimed at nurturing local talent. “It was so much fun, and I met so many people, many of whom I am still in touch with today,” Dave recalled. Eventually, he stepped back from running the company to focus on his passion for writing, which led to The Mystery at Thade Mansion.

When asked about his process, Dave explained, “I began with the ending. Once I was satisfied with how the story concluded, I crafted the beginning. The rest was simply filling in the blanks.” The play was submitted to the Borelians, Port Perry’s long-standing theatre company, where it received enthusiastic support. In 2007, it was staged to great acclaim.

Years later, Borelians producer Ari Todd approached Dave about reviving the play. Ari suggested Dave direct the production himself, and in February 2025, The Mystery at Thade Mansion returned to the Town Hall Theatre. The revival was a resounding success, once again delighting audiences with its twists and turns.

I attended and found myself thoroughly immersed in the story. Near the conclusion, two of the lead characters remained on stage, hinting at a possible sequel. When I later asked Dave about it, he smiled but remained tight-lipped, saying only, “You never know.” That struck me as a hopeful sign audiences may see more from him.

Outside of theatre, Dave enjoys golf and plays baseball in a seniors’ league. He and Susan have also cherished their travels and their shared love of stage productions. His latest project is a guide for aspiring playwrights and producers, offering practical advice on creating and staging shows. “The concept is something that would be extremely helpful for anyone wanting to become involved in theatre,” he explained. “I have gained a wealth of experience over the past 25 years, and I am thrilled to share it with others.”

It is clear Dave Ellis has no intention of slowing down. His dedication to theatre, education, and the arts continues to inspire those around him. If you ever have the chance to see a production connected to his name, it will be an experience worth remembering.