A new play by Cathouse Players is set in France and will be performed in Kyneton, but its star performers are Maldon and Castlemaine locals. ‘Trap for a Lonely Man’ is an intriguing mystery featuring familiar faces such as Graham Pitts, Michael Treloar, Mark Fuller, with Helen Gramberg and Maggie Browne.

The Hitchcockian suspense is high in this 1960 comedy-mystery by French playwright and actor, Robert Thomas. Directed by Cathouse Artistic Director Bette Sartore, it features a man who believes his wife has been replaced by an imposter, with the kind of twists and surprises that will make an audience gasp.

“It’s a cracker of a play,” Bette says. The producers hope that audiences will keep their lips sealed about the play’s thrilling conclusion.

The dedicated performers have been working hard on the pacey dialogue and high-tension interactions, enacting one cliff-hanger after another. The play keeps audiences guessing until the very end.

After preparing for weeks in its custom rehearsal studio, the group has a unique way of transporting the set to the performance venue.

“The set is taken across on horse float,” laughs actor and committee member Maggie Browne.

“We build the stage, proscenium arch, curtains, everything,” Maggie says.

The play runs for six shows only, with wine, cheese and nibbles served at Friday evening performances, while the matinee interval will be a fancy affair featuring ‘High Tea with Bubbles’.

With such great local talent involved, a gripping plot and a welcoming company, there’s no reason to miss this fun night at the theatre; just don’t give away the ending!

‘Trap for a Lonely Man’ at Kyneton Masonic Centre, 7 Yaldwyn Street West, Kyneton. Friday 18 October to Sunday 27 October. Bookings: trybooking.com/CURGO or visit: cathouseplayers.com.au.

This article appeared in the  Tarrangower Times, 13 September 2024.