Villagers invited to solve mystery in Northamptonshire village - and there's themed beer on tap

Theatre goers will be treated to an Agatha Christie mystery as a Orlingbury Drama Group brings a psychological thriller to the village - and to get the little grey cells going, there’s themed beer on tap.

It's the latest play by the community drama group that has been taking to the stage for the past 40 years, a staple of the village calendar.

A three-night run will see the cast of six bring The Stranger – a thriller set in a remote country cottage where a dark and terrible climax takes place.

The Orlingbury production will feature music composed in the village especially for the show.

Orlingbury Drama Group: The Stranger - the cast  - Kath Gosling, Jane Pipkin,  The Stranger, Ellen Hobday, and bar manager John 'Norty' Norton /National Worldplaceholder image
Orlingbury Drama Group: The Stranger - the cast - Kath Gosling, Jane Pipkin, The Stranger, Ellen Hobday, and bar manager John 'Norty' Norton /National World

Co-director Susan Cole said: "This play is very funny in parts and very dark in others – and it ends in a catastrophe. Although it’s an Agatha Christie, it’s a play that is not well known, but its also very suitable for amateur dramatic groups. It’s been quite tricky with the set."

The group started rehearsals in November to prepare for the performances that take place on March 26, 27 and 28 at 7.30pm in the village hall.

Resident John ‘Norty’ Norton will be serving a selection of locally sourced traditional beers with four bespoke brews – Agatha’s Ale, Dark Secrets, Stranger Stronger and Mystery Ale made by Gt Oakley, Potbelly and Rockingham Breweries.

And there is a pre-theatre dinner menu at the Queen’s Arms with a two-course meal and drink deal for £25.

Orlingbury Drama Group: The Stranger - the cast  - Jane Pipkin,  Kath Gosling,  Ellen Hobday and 'The Stranger' - also in the cast are Maggie and Andy Pennifold  /National Worldplaceholder image
Orlingbury Drama Group: The Stranger - the cast - Jane Pipkin, Kath Gosling, Ellen Hobday and 'The Stranger' - also in the cast are Maggie and Andy Pennifold /National World

After this production, the group will start to plan their next show and director Susan is inviting members of the community to get involved.

She added: “We are looking for more members to join us, not just actors, but help with costumes, the set, finding props – come along and join in.”

For tickets email [email protected] or call 07738 031646.

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