Players bring murder to Putaruru stage
When it comes to classic crime fiction Agatha Christie is one of the greats and although she died in 1976 her work continues to entertain.
The Putaruru Theatre Players are getting in on the action by bringing Christie’s 1950 novel Murder is Announced to The Kensington Theatre stage from July 30.
Publicity spokesperson Jay Ward, who has been involved with the group since 1980, said the play will offer plenty of excitement.
A‘‘An announcement in the local paper states the time and a place when a murder is to occur and what follows is a classic Christie puzzle of mixed motives, concealed identities, a second death, a determined inspector grimly following the twists and turns and [character] Miss Marple providing the final solution at some risk to herself,’’ she said.
‘‘There is a cast of 12 who all had to audition and two new ones and Gary Robinson and Steve Hill will be directing.’’
‘‘Gary directed And Then There Were None, which is another Agatha Christie, a couple of years ago and it was very successful so we though we would do another one.’’
‘‘There is nothing quite like watching live theatre and it allows everyone to have a go,’’ she said.
Production team leader Matt Andrew said he was looking forward to opening night.
‘‘This is a very well known play by a well known writer so it is exciting to get to see people acting out a book that a lot of people like,’’ he said.
Ward said the show’s crew are currently busy preparing the set and completing other renovations following a substantial flood in the theatre earlier in the year.
‘‘Luckily we had insurance but it has been a slow process having to sort everything out,’’ she said.
Shows will be held on Saturday, July 30 at 7.30pm, Sunday, July 31 at 2pm, Wednesday, August 3 at 7.30pm, Thursday, August 4 at 7.30pm, Friday, August 5 at 7.30pm, and Saturday, August 6 at 7.30pm.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $16 for students. Bookings can be made at Van Dyks in Putaruru’s Main St or by calling 883 7814.
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