New Hope

Allen Simpson, a playwright with a few successful local productions wants to make a change from writing plays to acting. His thoughts being, "If I can write a script, why not attempt playing one of the characters?" Trying to fulfill that commitment, in the fall of 1975, he sought a part in a play. He'd been trying for several years without success, and being almost 40, was wondering whether it's still worth the effort, but decides to give it one last try. He's drawn to New Hope, a small town 30 miles north of Philadelphia along the bank of the Delaware River. The town claims its reputation through artists, folk singers and a very popular New Hope Theater. To ensure its location the night before the audition, he entered the parking lot that rainy November evening. A flash of lightning illuminated the sign on the wall of the converted grist mill that read, New Hope Theater- The Players. The way it was worded sent mixed signals to his brain. Was it because of the success of the people advancing to the New York stage and beyond, or just a farewell to those like himself who tried? Looking for a place to stay, he happened on a bed and breakfast where several aspiring actors were lodging, trying out for the same play. With his final attempt at acting, the title of the play was Murder at the Logan Mansion. Little did he realize he would be involved in a real-life drama, which included anger, jealousy, love and MURDER!