By Lucille Fletcher | Produced by [Insert Name Here]
Showings: December 6th, 7th, 8th, 13th, 14th, and 15th
“Sorry, Wrong Number” is a classic one-act play written by Lucille Fletcher. It is a suspenseful thriller that centers around the character of Mrs. Elbert Stevenson, an invalid woman confined to her bed due to illness. The play takes place in her bedroom, which becomes the focal point of the action.
The story begins when Mrs. Stevenson attempts to make a phone call to her husband, who is working late. However, due to crossed telephone lines and operator errors, she accidentally overhears a conversation on a party line (a shared phone line) that suggests a murder plot is being hatched. Terrified and unable to leave her bed, Mrs. Stevenson desperately tries to get the authorities to intervene and prevent the crime.
As the play unfolds, Mrs. Stevenson becomes increasingly frantic as she pieces together the details of the murder plot. She contacts the telephone operator and the police, but her inability to provide concrete information about the location of the crime adds to the suspense. The tension rises as she struggles to be heard and taken seriously by the people she contacts.
“Sorry, Wrong Number” is a gripping and suspenseful drama that explores themes of helplessness, isolation, and the consequences of eavesdropping. The play keeps the audience on the edge of their seats as they follow Mrs. Stevenson’s race against time to stop the impending murder. It is a classic example of a radio drama and has been adapted into various formats over the years, including a famous radio play and a film. The play is celebrated for its effective use of tension and suspense, making it a thrilling and memorable theatrical experience.