SLIPPERY AS SIN

by David Lee White

An "old dark house" mystery about our war on facts. It's 1931 and Dorrington, America's most brilliant detective, is trapped on an island with some of the country's most elite socialites. As the evening wears on and backstabbing plots are revealed, Dorrington becomes convinced that the house is under siege by Diabolicus - a master criminal that no one has ever seen, Dorrington realizes that he must do whatever...

An "old dark house" mystery about our war on facts. It's 1931 and Dorrington, America's most brilliant detective, is trapped on an island with some of the country's most elite socialites. As the evening wears on and backstabbing plots are revealed, Dorrington becomes convinced that the house is under siege by Diabolicus - a master criminal that no one has ever seen, Dorrington realizes that he must do whatever it takes to convince the others that Diabolicus is responsible - even if he doesn't even exist.

  • Inquire About Rights
  • Recommend
  • Download
  • Save to Reading List

SLIPPERY AS SIN

Recommended by

  • Tom Rowan: SLIPPERY AS SIN

    This play takes starts with some of the familiar tropes from Agatha Christie mysteries and mixes in elements of farce, macabre visuals, and witty repartee to concoct an especially bubbly brew. There’s even some social satire that might ring relevant in this era of gaslighting and conspiracy theories. It’s an ensemble piece with juicy roles for all, and an especially rewarding tour-de-force lead for a versatile, charismatic actor, playing a legendary detective who may or may not be his own worst enemy.

    This play takes starts with some of the familiar tropes from Agatha Christie mysteries and mixes in elements of farce, macabre visuals, and witty repartee to concoct an especially bubbly brew. There’s even some social satire that might ring relevant in this era of gaslighting and conspiracy theories. It’s an ensemble piece with juicy roles for all, and an especially rewarding tour-de-force lead for a versatile, charismatic actor, playing a legendary detective who may or may not be his own worst enemy.

  • Kate Brennan: SLIPPERY AS SIN

    I cannot believe how topical this political murder mystery is even though it was written a decade ago! It's gruesome, smart and I laughed out loud on several occasions. Why isn't this show being done everywhere? What a brilliant commentary on the dangers of the truth not being true. Read it!

    I cannot believe how topical this political murder mystery is even though it was written a decade ago! It's gruesome, smart and I laughed out loud on several occasions. Why isn't this show being done everywhere? What a brilliant commentary on the dangers of the truth not being true. Read it!

  • Cheryl Bear: SLIPPERY AS SIN

    A hilarious and utterly enjoyable thriller as Dorrington must show that Diabolicus is to blame! Well done!

    A hilarious and utterly enjoyable thriller as Dorrington must show that Diabolicus is to blame! Well done!

View all 6 recommendations

Character Information

  • Lolly
    A young woman. Craves excitement! Danger!
    Character Age
    20s
    Character Race/Ethnic Identity
    Any
    Character Gender Identity
    Female
  • Madame Sarah
    Middle-aged matriarch. Speaks with a highly theatrical affectation. Up to something.
    Character Age
    Middle-aged
    Character Race/Ethnic Identity
    Any
    Character Gender Identity
    Female
  • Harry Cleek
    Lolly’s paramour and Dorrington’s Boswell. Intelligent, practical.
    Character Age
    20s
    Character Race/Ethnic Identity
    Any
    Character Gender Identity
    Male
  • Cleek
    Harry’s father. Runs a munitions plant. Really good man. Okay, not that good.
    Character Age
    Middle-aged
    Character Race/Ethnic Identity
    Any
    Character Gender Identity
    Male
  • Dorrington
    A famous, brilliant private detective. Self-righteous. Voice of Justice. Capable. Resourceful. Intelligent.
    Character Age
    Middle-aged
    Character Race/Ethnic Identity
    Any
    Character Gender Identity
    Male
  • Morrison
    The Butler. Middle-aged. Formal, but grew up working-class.
    Character Age
    Middle-aged
    Character Race/Ethnic Identity
    Any
    Character Gender Identity
    Male

Development History

  • Type Workshop, Organization Passage Theatre, directed by Adam Immerwahr, Year 2010

Production History

  • Type Professional, Organization Passage Theatre, directed by Adam Immerwahr, Year 2011