Tale of murder and mayhem comes to Kenilworth

Drama critic Mortimer Brewster discovers that his beloved maiden aunts, Abby and Martha, are homicidal maniacs and that insanity doesn’t just run in the family, “it practically gallops”.

The bodies, baddies, police and crooks pile up in the auntie’s house, while Mortimer agonises over whether or not to marry his fiancee and the evening progresses to its climax.

Mick Ives, who is directing this Talisman production, promises not only theatre-filling laughter, but also to keep the audience on the edge of their seats.

The play contains scenes cut from the 1944 film starring Cary Grant – in particular, those with Mortimer’s lunatic brother Jonathan and his personal plastic surgeon, Doctor Einstein.

Christine Carpenter, the theatre’s artistic director, said: “When we knew this play was available from the publishers, we grabbed it with both hands. It’s full of rich, comedic characters, including murderous aunts, New York cops, plastic surgeons and gangsters.

“We knew we could cast these parts with strong local actors – our season has been built around providing rich acting opportunities. We felt this would be one of the ‘must- see’ shows of our 70th anniversary year.”

She added: “I also made sure that Mick Ives, one of the theatre’s most experienced directors, was at the helm to ensure the production matched the quality of the script.”

Arsenic and Old Lace is now running at the theatre in Barrow Road until Saturday July 14 at 7.30pm each evening. For tickets, which cost from £6 to £8.50, call 856548.

The Talisman is holding a week-long festival to celebrate its 70th anniversary, from October 8 to 13, as well as a special dinner at the Holiday Inn in Kenilworth on Saturday October 20.

The theatre welcomes anyone who wishes to join members at the dinner, for which tickets cost £30 and include a welcome drink, three-course meal and entertainment. To book, email [email protected] or call Stephen Duckham on 07817 100483.