McNeese Bayou Players take to stage with ‘Sleuth’

The McNeese State University Bayou Players will present the Tony Award-winning play, “Sleuth,” this weekend at Lake Charles Little Theatre, 813 Enterprise Blvd.

Shows are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 2 p.m. Sunday.

The play, written by Anthony Shaffer, is set in modern day England and revolves around business owner Milo Tindle and successful crime fiction writer Andrew Wyke. Upon Tindle’s arrival in the county of Wiltshire, he meets Wyke and is invited to his manor house. There, the story turns into a enticing mystery filled with jealousy, deception and plenty of plot twists.

“It keeps you guessing as to who did it,” said Diane Rathbun, the play’s director. “It’s an interesting story that has appeal for all ages.”

Rathbun said the conflicting interests of Tindle and Wyke eventually lead to a clash between the two.

“There’s someone trying to hold on to his real or imagined influence and popularity, as opposed to someone who has a richer life without all that,” she said.

Despite the dramatic tone of the play, Rathbun said it also has plenty of comedy.

“There’s a little something for everyone,” she said.

The play stars Michael Davis as Wyke and Eric Thibodeaux as Tindle. Other cast members include Joseph John Pressley as Detective Tarrant and Milton Hebert as Inspector Doppler.

The crew includes Mark Bailes, assistant director and costume designer; Barry Rathbun, sound designer; Stephen Vidrine, lighting designer; Joseph Comeaux and Gustavo Gutierrez, special effects and props.