Classic Comedy-Thriller next up at Rugby Theatre

Helga ten Dorp played by Cheryl Ryan, Myra Bruhl played by Terri Brown, Sidney Bruhl (seated) played by Gary van Sluiters, Clifford Anderson played by Bryn Richards, Porter Milgrim played by Annie Peverelle. Photo  by Martin Pulley.

Deathtrap at Rugby Theatre from 20 – 27 April at 7.30pm nightly. A classic comedy thriller written by Ira Levin, Directed by Steve Crump.

Preview

How far would you go to achieve fame and fortune? That will be the question facing audience members at the classic thriller Deathtrap, up next at Rugby Theatre.

Deathtrap is set in the secluded home of Sidney Bruhl, a once-successful playwright struggling with a bout of writer's block. Sidney receives a promising script from a former student, Clifford Anderson, and sees a chance to reclaim his former glory. But when Clifford arrives later that evening, no one – not even the visiting psychic – can predict where the dark events of the night will go.

“Plays don’t get much better than Deathtrap,” says the show’s director Steve Crump. “With a dizzying array of plot twists, it holds the record for the longest-running comedy-thriller on Broadway, and was nominated for four Tony Awards, including Best Play.”

As the plot thickens and secrets unravel, the line between reality and fiction blurs, leading to a series of shocking revelations and spine-tingling suspense. Who is innocent? Who only seems that way? And is anyone really safe when a man sees a clean shot at success?

“While Deathtrap is set in 1970s’ America, the play is so well crafted and ingenious that it deals with themes which are universally human,” says Steve. “The insightful, biting script spares no one: not writers, not producers, not even the audience.

Deathtrap is the longest running comedy-thriller on Broadway. Photo by Martin Pulley.

“Every production at Rugby Theatre is only possible thanks to the effort and talents of the wonderful volunteers who give their time so generously,” continues Steve. “This, of course, includes the gifted cast, some of whom have been subjected to much discomfort in the rehearsal room. No spoilers, but weapons were involved!”

Deathtrap runs from 20-27 April, with limited discounted Early Bird tickets available on the Monday-Wednesday. Tickets are available from the Rugby Theatre box office on 01788 541234, or www.rugbytheatre.co.uk.