The Ladykillers

Act One

Set in the lopsided, topsy-turvy house of Mrs. Wilberforce, the play opens with the little old lady chatting to local policeman, Constable Macdonald. He has come to her house as Mrs. Wilberforce has accused the local newsagent of being high-ranking Nazi officer. It soon becomes clear that Mrs. Wilberforce has made a terrible mistake, and has made similar outlandish accusations in the past. After the constable leaves, Mrs. Wilberforce has another visitor. Professor Marcus has come to inquire about a room Mrs. Wilberforce has advertised to let. He charms the old lady, even covering his surprise when he catches sight of General Gordon, Mrs. Wilberforce’s parrot with an appalling skin condition. Marcus agrees to rent the room immediately and reveals that he and his friends are musicians. As such, they will need peace and quiet to ‘rehearse’ without interruption.

The following day, Marcus’ companions begin to arrive, one-by-one, at the house. First to arrive is Major Courtney, who