A MUSIC group will be hoping to kill it on the stage of a Devon theatre next month they open a festival dedicated to the Queen of Crime.

Opening the Agatha Christie Festival at Paignton’s Palace  Theatre on September 8 will be The Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers, a group with a difference.

Between them Val McDermid (vocals), Chris Brookmyre (guitar/vocals), Mark Billingham (guitar/vocals), Luca Veste (bass), Doug Johnstone (drums/vocals), and Stuart Neville (guitar/vocals) have sold over 20 million books worldwide and won every major crime-writing award.

But for one night only, this crime-writing super-group will be rocking out on the Palace stage instead of the page.

They’ve fought the law; they’ve watched the detectives; and they’ve been down in the tube station at midnight. 

They’ve played Glasgow, Belfast, Reykjavik, London, Toronto and Glastonbury (yes, Glastonbury) and now they’re about to rock the English Riviera. Murder on the dance floor is guaranteed.

Creative director of the Agatha Christie Festival, Matt Newbury, said: ‘I’m really excited to have such a unique and fun event opening the 2023 festival. The Fun Lovin’ Crime Writers play songs about murder and death and cover everyone from The Beatles to The Clash, via The Jam, The Pretenders and Elton John. 

‘They have rocked the stage at Glastonbury and played to international audiences from Reykjavik to Toronto. 

‘We are thrilled that we were able to persuade them to visit the Southwest and for what promises to be a brilliant night of killer tunes.’

Earlier in the day the famous Crime Writers will also host A Murderous Afternoon Tea in the theatre’s, Stage Left venue. 

This truly unique Afternoon Tea experience will include scones, cream and jam, cocktail sandwiches/rolls of various fillings, a selection of delicious cakes and savouries, plus tea or coffee.

Tickets for both events can be purchased online through the Palace Theatre website: www.palacetheatrepaignton.co.uk, over the counter at the theatre’s box office (open on weekdays from 11am to )pm) or by calling 01803 665800.