Woodlands Drama Group brings 'one of the greatest detective stories ever' to Harrogate Theatre Studio stage

A kidnapping accusation, village gossip, one determined solicitor… and just enough mystery, comedy and romance to keep everyone guessing.

The Franchise Affair, presented by Harrogate-based Woodlands Drama Group, is based on the novel by crime writer Josephine Tey, whose work bridged the gap between golden age legends like Agatha Christie and later psychological crime writers such as Patricia Highsmith and Ruth Rendell.

Detective Grant, Shane Delaney in his first role with Woodlands, interviews the Sharpe ladies, Eleanor Harris as Marion and Kay Manby as Mrs Sharpe (credit Raelene Goddard)

placeholder image — Detective Grant, Shane Delaney in his first role with Woodlands, interviews the Sharpe ladies, Eleanor Harris as Marion and Kay Manby as Mrs Sharpe (credit Raelene Goddard)

Written in 1948, it was later named by the Crime Writers’ Association as one of the greatest detective novels ever written.

Conservative village solicitor Robert Blair defends two independent women, Marion Sharpe and her mother.

They are accused of abducting and abusing a 15-year-old girl named Betty Kane but the investigation uncovers a shocking deception

Adapted for today’s audiences by Jay Cundell Walker, the gripping drama explores prejudice, injustice and the dangers of public accusation – themes that remain relevant today.

The Franchise Affair is on Harrogate Theatre Studio from Thursday June 11 to Saturday June 13, daily at 7.30pm plus a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

Tickets: 01423 502116 and https://www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk/events/the-franchise-affair/