Resurrection Players Uncover Victorian Murder Mystery at Local Festival

The Resurrection Players brought a unique blend of history and entertainment to the Wash Common Community Festival, held at the Falkland Cricket Club, by staging a performance centered on the Victorian era Gun Club Murder Mystery. This marked the group’s ninth production, captivating attendees with a dramatic reenactment that intertwined real-life events with theatrical flair.

Ros Clow, leader of the history group Friends of Newtown Road Cemetery, praised the cast, stating that “the whole cast were brilliant.” The event featured ten special constables, who formed small groups to engage with the audience, questioning any “Victorian ghosts” they encountered during the performance.

In a twist of theatrics, the character William Brindley, portrayed by Luke Johnson, was identified as the murderer. The plot thickened when he was apprehended by PC Stillman, played by David Clow, following a comedic chase accompanied by the familiar tune of “Yakety Sax,” famously known from the Benny Hill show, courtesy of Kennet Radio. The operation was overseen by Coroner Joseph Bunney, portrayed by Steve Wallis, along with the first vicar of St John’s, Rev Hubbard, played by Graham Salter.

This performance was inspired by a true story, with many of the characters actually buried in Newtown Road Cemetery. The group’s upcoming events continue to explore local history, including their Ghost Walks scheduled for All Saints’ Night on November 1. These walks will take participants through the cemetery, providing insights into the lives of those interred there.

Last year, the Ghost Walks saw significant interest, with only two tours conducted but resulting in an overwhelming response. “We were absolutely inundated, with people queuing up Newtown Road, expecting to pay by card in the dark in a cemetery,” Clow recalled. “It was chaos! We sold 70 tickets.”

In response to the demand, the group is expanding this year’s offerings to three tours, including an early session tailored for families. The two later tours promise to be more intense, with Clow humorously noting, “as long as I can get the ghosts to cooperate!”

The Resurrection Players’ commitment to blending local history with engaging performances not only entertains but also educates the community about the rich past of their area. With the anticipation building for the upcoming Ghost Walks, it is clear that the combination of history, mystery, and performance continues to resonate with audiences.