A Workington theatre group will be one of the first in the country to perform The Perfect Murder .

The play by Shaun McKenna is due to be performed by Workington Playgoers from Tuesday to Saturday at the Theatre Royal.

Director Jenni Rushton said: “I’m the sort of person who clicks about on websites all the time to find out what’s going on in theatres. I saw that The Perfect Murder was about to become available for amateur groups and I enquired.

“Shaun McKenna actually sent me a copy of the script for me to see and as soon as the rights were available we applied and got the licence.

“I don’t know how many other groups have had their licence granted, but we’ll definitely be among the first amateur groups to perform it.”

The play is Shaun McKenna’s adaptation of the best-selling novella of the same name by Peter James, who has cultivated a massive following with his book series featuring ace detective Chief Superintendent Roy Grace.

Grace is a key figure in the play, but the clock has been turned back to put him on his first homicide case and with the lowly rank of detective constable.

He is played by Andrew Young in his first major outing with Playgoers.

The plot follows the story of Victor Smiley (Andy Palmer) who has hatched a plot to bump off his wife Joan (Sarah Delorme) in what he thinks will be the perfect murder.

His plan is to set up home with Kamila (Jane Douglas), who is currently charging him £40 a visit for her affections.

Jane took on the role only two weeks before the opening night due to another cast member being taken ill.

But Joan, who has a lover too – Don (Mike Hoggarth) – is also harbouring dark and malevolent thoughts towards Victor.

Jenni said: “This play keeps you on your toes, it’s quite convoluted.

“I can’t wait to see the final result with the lighting by Geoff Brinicombe and the sounds by Jamie Sims.”

Jenni picked music from The Dark Piano by Myuu. She said: “I just Googled ‘creepy music’ and that came up and it’s brilliant.

“It’s the twist and turns that attracted me to this play. I hope it will keep people guessing until the end. I think it’s a lovely piece.

“I haven’t directed for a long time and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed coming back to it. Maybe it’s something that I could start doing more often. The Playgoers love a good murder and this seemed the kind of play that could go down well.

“The rehearsals have gone really well and I’m really looking forward to seeing it coming together.”

Shows start at 7.30pm each night. Tickets cost £10 for adults and £9 concessions.

To book, call the new ticket line on 01900 603161 or email wplay goers@btinternet.com