The Grapes of Frath

Set in 1925 onboard a yacht in the Mediterranean. 'It is June 1925, aboard a luxury cruiser in the Mediterranean.
Archibald Bemmington Frath, the internationally famous distributor of champagne and fine wines, and the owner of
the multinational corporate enterprise, GRAPES OF FRATH, has invited several 'friends' for a cruise aboard his
luxury vessel. In a secluded bay of a Mediterranean island, murder is discovered and the passengers must decide
who amongst them has committed the crime.

The Guest List

Mademoiselle Lucinde S. Gucie: Lucie, as she is known in Paris society, is a young Parisienne and trés a la vogue. A rising
star in the social lights of Paris, she has left a trail of broken-hearted suitors, young and old, rich and famous, who have sought
her hand in marriage. Heiress to the estates of Baron Lucien Gucie, now deceased but founder of the internationally famous
pâté distribution enterprise, Pâté Gucie. Lucie has only to wait one year, until her 28th birthday, to receive possession of her
inheritance from the trustee of her estate, Wellington C. Waterloo.
Costume suggestion: High fashion “flapper” dress, long necklace.

Jules T. Hieffe: Known in Paris society as Jules, he is a dealer in precious gems and expensive jewellery pieces. His shop in
Paris, on the Rue de la Payor, the internationally famous Maison Hieffe, enjoys the trade of a select and wealthy clientele.
Something of a playboy, Jules enjoys the night-life of Paris and has many female admirers who are, perhaps, attracted to the
lure of his jewels. In connection with his business, he travels widely on the continent and is often away on business trips.  
Costume Suggestion: French beret, turtleneck sweater, jeweller’s lens.

Captain Malcolm D. Meirre: Captain Meirre is master of the Gilded Vessel DayTripper. A seaman of renown, he was
decorated during World War 1 for his heroic exploits as captain of the HMS Tippler, a supply ship which, during a climactic sea
battle in the waning moments of the war, succeeded in sinking the massive German battle cruiser, Teidelvafe. As a result of
injuries sustained in the war, he walks with a limp and often uses a cane. Unless his duties as captain interfere, he is always
included in the festivities aboard the Gilded Vessel DayTripper. Everyone calls him Captain Mal.
Costume suggestion: Nautical attire, medals and ribbons, cane for wounded leg.

Countess Natalia Irina Forilska: A Russian countess, she escaped from St. Petersburg prior to the revolution and made her
way to Paris where she opened her now famous Luminence Rouge nightclub. It is said that she brought with her the spectacular
tiara called Couronne des Etoiles. Perhaps because it enhances the image of her nightclub, she has allowed this rumour to
circulate without denial. Her personal charm and flamboyance have made her a success and her nightclub one of the brightest
spots in an already glittering Paris. Everyone, but everyone, calls her “Nadya”.
Costume suggestion: Flamboyant, flowing dress, lots of rings and necklaces.

Bella Donna Maria Cossa: Bella is, above all else, a coloratura soprano, a highly talented and developing star with the
internationally acclaimed Opera Monte Carlo. Vivacious and lively on stage, she is praised for her purity of voice, extensive
vocal range and the grace of her manner. She recently played the title role of the comic hairdresser in Gioacchini Lenguini’s
classic opera, Barbara of Seville. Bella has only recently emerged in society, having spent a secluded life studying her art.  
Costume suggestion: Demure but slightly theatrical attire.

Miles F Latout: Miles is a dashing fellow indeed, a race car driver. Last year, 1924, he campaigned his Bugatti as a private
entrant on the Grand Prix circuit and succeeded in taking a first at the Grand Prix de Monte Carlo. This amazing feat has
brought him world-wide attention. Miles is a highly sociable person and can often be found in high society gatherings or at the
baccarat table playing for high stakes. His favourite casino in Monte Carlo is the world famous Club Risqueuse.
Costume suggestion: Jaunty cap, white scarf, dark sunglasses.

Wellington C. Waterloo: W.C., as he is known, is a businessman and entrepreneur with a record of financial success that is
the envy of investors in London, Paris and New York. Men of capital have sought him out for advice on matters of finance and
he has often consulted with Archibald Frath with regard to Frath’s investments. Before his death, Baron Lucien Gucie, one of
the richest men in Europe, appointed him trustee of his estates which he now manages for the heiress, Lucie. He has often
sailed with Frath aboard the Gilded Vessel and is aboard on this occasion to discuss various aspects of Frath’s business affairs.
He is a gourmet and shares with Frath an enthusiastic interest in fine wine.
Costume suggestion: “Lounge suit,” homburg, brief case.

Desiree Flambeau: A young, highly motivated businesswoman, she is struggling against tremendous odds to restore her family
fortune. The once flourishing Flambeau Vineyards were nearly destroyed a few years ago by a deadly grape blight. This
disaster contributed to the untimely demise of her father, Crispen Flambeau, leaving her to support her invalid mother and six
younger brothers and sisters. Archibald Frath has been very supportive of her efforts and has assisted her and her family in
many ways. She has become close to Frath, as a result, and has often travelled with him on the Gilded Vessel.
Costume suggestion: Tailored business-like dress or suit.

R.O. DeBigh: Resident Steward of the Gilded Vessel DayTripper who will be on hand to see that the guests are well catered for
and that events proceed according to plan.
Costume suggestion: White trousers and shirt ; naval type epaulets; black lace up shoes.

Dory DeBigh: Resident Stewardess of the DayTripper and wife of R.O., who assumes responsibility for serving guests on the
Gilded Vessel DayTripper.
Costume suggestion: White skirt and shirt; naval type epaulets; black lace up shoes.

(The period of Frath’s voyage is the flapper era. Anything from mid-20s will add an exciting element of realism and
challenge your ingenuity. Women’s styles reflected their new freedom by being loose and free is not downright baggy.
No floor length gowns onboard please. Men's styles also tended to be baggy. Guests of Archibald Frath would be most
likely to wear dress casual attire suggestive of a yachting party – naval blazer and straw hat for example.)