Inspector’s Notes with the “Ravenscroft” Suspect of the Week
Inspector Ruffing has been called to investigate the death of Patrick Roarke at the remote Ravenscroft estate in the English countryside. The year is 1905. There are five women in the house: Mrs. Ravenscroft, her 17-year old daughter, Gillian, Marcy Kleiner, Gillian’s governess, Mrs. French, the housekeeper, and Dolly, the Ravenscrofts’ maid. When the Inspector arrives at the manor, he is told that Patrick fell down the stairs and his death is an accident. He discovers some interesting details through his questioning of the residents of the Ravenscroft estate.
This Week’s Suspect: Marcy Kleiner
Ruffing: How long have you been employed at the Ravenscroft estate?
Marcy: I have worked here for the Ravenscrofts for 6 months.
Ruffing: What are your specific duties here?
Marcy: I work as governess and companion for the Ravenscrofts' daughter, Gillian. I educate her in all subjects. I even attempt to teach her different languages. She prefers French over German and Italian. Gillian would rather focus on creative exploits such as drawing, writing, and playing the piano than studying history or mathematics. Teaching her about literature is very simple; Gillian can easily visualize the story and draw out the subtle meanings found within the words.
Ruffing: How do you like working for the Ravenscrofts?
Marcy: I enjoy working with children. I have been doing it for some time. It is not my place to discuss the personal business of my employers.
Ruffing: What do you have to say about Patrick Roarke?
Marcy: He could be very kind. I enjoyed making conversation with him when I started working for the Ravenscrofts. He was a very curious man, and he seemed to have strong superstitions. He often told me that we had a lot in common. He was also very fond of Gillian.
Ruffing’s Notes: Miss Kleiner seems different from the others. I feel she has a secret, too, but there is something about her. Did she mean she didn’t enjoy making conversation with Patrick as time went by? What happened? What manner of superstitions did Patrick have? This house holds no answers for me. Someone here is lying. Perhaps more than one. I will continue to investigate into these matters further.
More Will Be Revealed...
As the Inspector hunts for clues to lead him to the truth, be on the lookout for more suspects of the week. GreenMan Theatre invites you to attend “Ravenscroft” by Don Nigro to see for yourself who the culprit, or culprits, will be. Mrs. Ravenscroft cordially requests your presence at Asbury Hall at the First United Methodist Church at 232 S. York in Elmhurst. The Ravenscrofts will only provide their hospitality for 9 weekend gatherings between October 14 and 30. Mrs. Ravenscroft requests that guests attend at 7:30 pm on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2 pm on Sundays. Tickets to attend the Ravenscroft manor are $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. If you require more information, please telephone 630-464-2646.
