An easy-to-produce comic mystery, and thus a favorite of community theaters nationwide, Ravenscroft is Don Nigro's satiric take on the traditional, English country house murder mystery à la Clue. The play follows the meticulous Inspector Ruffing as he looks into the death of Ravenscroft estate's overly amorous chauffer. Each of the female suspects — the widow Ravenscroft, her daughter, her daughter's governess, the housekeeper and the maid — offer their own versions of what happened regarding the young man's demise and also that of the late Mr. Ravenscroft. Of course, each account contradicts the next, making for plenty of twists, turns and comic relief. Presented by Gulfport Community Players; Frank Hale directs. Through May 21, 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 1:30 p.m. Sun., Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport, $15, 727-552-2222.
This article appears in May 17-23, 2006.