PUTTING on a show can be murder says director of the Agatha Christie murder mystery classic The Hollow, Chris Fryer.

One of his favourite plays, a weekend party at the country home of Sir Henry and Lady Angkatell turns sour. Doctor John Cristow and his wife Gerda are joined by his mistress Henrietta and ex-mistress Veronica.

There’s only one possible outcome – murder. It’s down to Inspector Colquhoun and his sergeant to work out who dunnit.

“Rehearsals are going well, but getting a little bit stressful; as they always do coming up to the performance,” says The Keyworth Players’ founder.

They started back in October in his dad’s lounge.

“We’ve done it with all our plays,” he laughs. “It’s quite nice rehearsing there rather than a cold, old hall. There’s tea, coffee and it’s nice and warm.”

Dad recently got his house back, with rehearsals moving to Trimley St Martin Memorial Hall and the cast are busy getting used to different entrances, exits and stage settings.

“The Hollow has a large cast of 12, which means more people to have to direct, more costumes, more wigs and more headaches when it comes to arranging a rehearsal schedule, as we all lead such busy lives these days.”

The latest production follows the success and sell out performances of Blithe Spirit, An Inspector Calls, the NODA award-winning A Murder is Announced and last year’s production of Private Lives.

It’s clear The Keyworth Players love their murder mysteries.

“They go down well with audiences and it’s fun to get away with murder every night,” laughs Chris.

Formed in 2006, the Felixstowe-based company aims to perform quality productions using fresh local talent.

The name Keyworth was the maiden name of Chris’ mother, who passed away in 2005.

A tireless worker for many amateur dramatic companies in the county, he thought it fitting to name the company after her.

“I think she would have been especially proud with the standard of performances and productions so far and would have loved to enjoy seeing The Keyworth Players growing in stature and going from strength to strength, performing quality live entertainment,” says Chris.

“It is especially rewarding to see local amateurs developing their talents and enjoying an exciting, if sometimes stressful, hobby and at the same time delivering quality productions for the theatre going public to enjoy.”

The Hollow runs at Trimley St Martin Memorial Hall, March 16-26, at 7.15pm. To book seats visit J&C Webb, Orwell Road, Felixstowe or call the box office on 07742 160467.