Auditions for next OFP play set for Nov. 30

FORT MADISON - It is a story of murder, deceit and mystery as the enduring courtroom drama by the legendary Agatha Christie comes to the Fort Madison stage, compliments of Old Fort Players and local sponsorship from the Fehseke & Gray Law Firm. As an added twist, OFP will be presenting the British version of Christie’s story, complete with the tribunal wigs and black robes.
Auditions for the classic whodunnit will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov 30, at the YMCA Test Kitchen, 807 Ave, G, and at 6 p.m. Monday, Dec. 1, at the Old Fort Players there, 725 Ave. G. There are roles for every level of experience – from the first-time actor to the veteran performer.
The story centers on Leonard Vole who is accused of murdering wealthy 56-year-old Emily French that he recently befriended. All the evidence points to him and when police learn the older woman made him the heir of her estate, Leonard is taken into custody. As Attorney Mayhew and the King’s Counsel, Sir Wilfrid Robarts, work diligently to defend their client against the case presented by Prosecutor Meyers, they find It challenging. Janet Mackenzie, French’s devoted housekeeper says she heard Leonard with her employer just minutes before the coroner’s estimated time of death, but then she also admits her dislike for the defendant. Leonard insists his equally devoted immigrant wife, Romaine, will provide a solid alibi, but his defense team is not so sure as disturbing revelations come to light on the witness stand.

Also taking the witness stand will be Inspector Hearne who describes the murder scene and Dr. Wyatt that will report the forensics uncovered. Rounding out the cast are Carter, the chief clerk; Greta, Sir Robarts’ typist; and “the other woman.”
Some volunteers from the audience may also get into the act by filling jury seats and listening to the evidence before the verdict is read by the foreperson.
 “Witness for the Prosecution” is scripted by Samuel French and made possible through arrangements with Concord Theatricals Corp.
The OFP production is under the direction of Shelley Dowling, assisted by Robin Delaney, and will make its way to audiences in February