“Who do I want to kill?” A particularly morbid question – but one of vital importance.
I had been invited to devise a suburban murder – a nasty little north Leeds killing. Therefore, I needed a victim. I decided mine would be an ambitious author, who chooses to write with a poison pen.
For several years now, mystery has been on the menu up in Adel. Theatregoers have been ushered in and presented with a new play that always involves a bumping-off (and it’s often brutal).
We’ve had crime in the church, a family feud that resulted in serious foul play and the slaughter of a reporter. Now my ill-fated novelist is about to be added to the body count.
“And where will this murder take place?” My victim needed to have cultivated their competitive streak, so a sporting pursuit seemed appropriate. I hit upon a golf club… no shortage of suspects there for my game of ‘whodunnit’.
The plot was constructed, the writing process ensued and now – after weeks of preparation – it’s almost time to commit the crime.
“But who will benefit from this death?” Of course, that remains to be seen. But as the clues and red herrings are revealed, the picture will become clearer. Local charities are sure to profit, however, and (all being well) the audience will be entertained.
Crafting this thriller has become a labour of love. At first, it was like a jigsaw, gradually putting pieces of the puzzle into place. Having fitted that picture together, it was time to animate the play with dialogue and dramatic scenes.
The most enjoyable aspect, though, has been directing – seeing the talented thespians at Adel Players bring my characters to life in the rehearsal room. Now I’m intrigued to see whether any of the wannabe detectives in our audience can make the necessary connections, and solve the mystery.
It’s too late to prevent the murder itself… but I’m sure justice will be done on the night.
‘It Went To Sudden Death’ will be performed at Adel Memorial Hall, LS16 8DE, on Friday 6 and Saturday 7 June (starts 7.30pm) as part of Adel Players’ Murder Mystery Evenings. Audience members will be challenged to spot the clues and then try to work out ‘whodunnit’. A pie and peas supper (or vegetarian option) is provided, while a tricky crime quiz and raffle also form part of the entertainment. Money raised from the evenings will go towards the Adel War Memorial Association charity and the Mannings for Macmillan 2014 appeal. Tickets are priced at £12 each. Bookings can be made by phoning 0113 275 5585 or via email at tickets@adel-players.org.uk. More information is available at the group’s website www.adel-players.org.uk.