A Moray village kirk is to become the unlikely setting for murder most foul when an amateur acting group stages its newest production.
Reverend Douglas Stevenson has taken inspiration from the board game Cluedo in writing his latest show for Cullen’s Disaster Theatre Company.
Three performances of Murder at Cumbly Down Manor will take place in the Hall Church next month.
Yesterday, the performers donned their colourful costumes as rehearsals ramped up with less than a fortnight until the curtain goes up.
Rev Stevenson promised that the plot would keep audiences guessing as to the identity of the culprit.
He added: “It’s about an eccentric woman who invites her two sisters to a murder mystery weekend at her ruined old manor.
“There are a number of other unusual individuals there, all inspired by characters from Cluedo.”
The cook is called Mrs Skink in an homage to the village’s most famous culinary export, and a film star character is named Miss Cullen.
A group of youngsters from the seaside area play the nieces of the homeowner, who are recruited to entertain her guests.
Cullen has a tradition of amateur performances stretching back more than 50 years, and the Disaster Theatre Company was formed four years ago to keep it alive.
Rev Stevenson added: “The name is fairly tongue in cheek, we are really just a group of enthusiasts doing it for a hoot.”
A production based on the legendary Broons comic strip attracted sell-out crowds for every night of its run last February.
Shows will take place at 7pm between Thursday, February 2, and Saturday, February 4, and tickets can be arranged by calling 01542 840610.
