Auditions: The Cast of the Frightened Lady

The Cast of the Frightened Lady

Written by Bill Scott, based on the novel by Edgar Wallace

Directed by Penel Keegan

Auditions to be held on Sunday 9th February from 10am – 4pm by appointment.

Rehearsals start on 16 March, preceded by a readthrough on 9 March

Rehearsals: Tuesdays, Thursdays at 7.00pm; Sunday afternoons at 2.00pm, including Easter

Season: 3-24 May, 2025

Copies of the script are available on request from the theatre office.

NB: Please note that script requests after December 20 will not be processed until mid-January when the theatre office reopens.

SYNOPSIS:

It’s 1932 and author Edgar Wallace gets a desperate call from his publisher about the novel he has promised to write – but hasn’t started! With only the night to produce a new novel, Wallace leaps into action, enlisting the help of his wife, his butler, his new secretary and even the gardener! Can it be done? Well…..yes….but what mayhem ensues!

The Case of the Frightened Lady is a hilarious account of the antics of the Wallace household as they flit between reality and fiction, inventing storylines, devising dialogue and arguing over the final denouement. The result is a hugely enjoyable mix of plot, character, farce and irony.

ROLES:

As all the actors play more than one role, it is not possible to give an outline of each character – you will need to read the play to do this. Ages are indicative only. If you feel you may be suitable for a role, you are encouraged to audition.

Edgar Wallace: Also plays Detective Inspector Tanner of Scotland Yard. 40s

Baxter: The butler. Also plays Detective Sergeant Totty, Tanner’s colleague. 45-55

Mrs Wallace: Edgar’s long-suffering wife. Also plays Lady Lebanon and Mrs Tilling. 35-40

Jenifer: Edgar’s new secretary. Also plays Isla Crane & Gilder. 25-35

Gardner: the gardener! Also plays Amersham, Kelver & Willie. 25-35


DIRECTOR’S NOTES: There is no deep meaning to this play. It’s fun, madcap and full of quick-fire energy. It will be a fun challenge for director and actors alike.

ABOUT THE DIRECTOR: Penel has been involved in community theatre for more years than she can recall, both acting and directing. The last time she directed at HLT was at the beginning of 2024 with Grand Horizons, and her most recent appearance on stage was as Kimberly in Kimberley Akimbo at the Dolphin Theatre in 2023.

For further information, please contact the director, Penel Keegan: pekasufra@gmail.com