FOUNDATION FOR MURDER

A Whodunit play in two acts written by Jackie Wesley-Harkcom

 The relatives are gathered for a seminal board meeting of the family company at their holiday retreat in South Devon.  The timing – just prior to the launch of a newly discovered cosmetic treatment expected to make millions in revenue.

The family are all desperate to hear a crucial announcement that is expected at the meeting.  What will be the CEO’s pronouncement this time?  What will the family’s reaction be to the unexpected merger of their company and the life changes for the family and staff?

Characters

Cassandra de Beuno; MD - Louminier Beauty Products; (LBP)
When her husband died she gained overall control of the family company which she runs with a rod of iron. She is a mature, strong-willed, domineering, self-centred, immaculately dressed woman. She's a bully, likes to have someone to fetch and carry for her and is in a constant low-level battle with her family. Age appropriate to having a 32 year old daughter.

Dr Victoria Trace; Cassandra's younger sister, head of R & D, (LBP)
Vickie is a much nicer person with a good sense of humour. She is a Doctor (GP) and Chemist using her talents to develop new and more ethical and environmentally friendly cosmetics. About 10 years younger than Cassandra.

Paul Trace; Victoria’s husband, R & D, (LBP)
He works with his wife in R & D. He’s on the board and is a company share holder. He will not put up with Cassandra's bullying and tends to try to protect the rest of the family.

Fleur Oliver; Cassandra’s elder daughter, Marketing Manager, (LBP)
She is aged about 32 years and is on the company board. Her husband is absent in Brazil throughout the Play; she phones to update him regularly.

Lorrina de Beuno; Cassandra’s younger daughter, (probation year LBP)
She is about 23 years old; in her probationary year with the company. She’s secretary to the board; she graduated from University last year.

Reece Polichecz ; Manager - Transport and Dispatch; (LBP)
Reece must be an attractive, charming man, young enough to be belittled as a 'toy boy' but old enough to be convincing as an escort for Cassandra.

Philip D’Arcy; Fleur’s Godfather, Forensic Archaeologist, writer (Super sleuth) Paul Trace and D’Arcy are similar age as they went to university together with Cassandra’s late husband.

DCI Forbes; Devon & Cornwall CID Fair sensible cop

DS Allison; Devon & Cornwall CID Fair sensible cop’s DS, can be amalgamated with Forbes