PORTSMOUTH — Over a dozen actors from five towns are coming together for the debut of Portsmouth Community Theater's historical drama, "Murder at the Coal Mines.”

The original play, a collaboration with the Portsmouth Historical Society, is based on an actual event in Portsmouth history.

Marjorie Webster and Gloria Schmidt of the historical society uncovered the details of a crime committed in the “Coal Mines” area of Portsmouth in the 1870s. Ms. Schmidt used the press accounts of the crime and trial to write the courtroom drama. Cindy Killavey of the Portsmouth Community Theater is staging and directing the play.

One performance will be held at 7 p.m. on Friday, May 25, at the Common Fence Point Community Center, 933 Anthony Road. Admission is by donation and funds collected will go toward theatrical renovations to the hall. 

Cast members are Tanya Kieron, Denise Betz, Dave Duggan, Paul Fredette, Bob Hamilton, Jim Killavey, Ron Marsh, Richard Schmidt, Rick Bagley, Dennis Ambrose, Maria Schmidt, Naill Tarrell, John and Bailey Brennan.