It's a play. It's a variety show. It is "The Cowboy Kidnapping Mystery," and it is coming to the Mancos Opera House on Friday, March 6.

Boe Hawkins plays Sherlock Homes-on-the-Range amid a cast of 19 other local actors and musical performers. The play is a story of the Colonel, played by Phillip Walters, who struggles to keep his dude ranch when faced with the kidnapping of his niece Arabella, played by Adriene Ratican. Other actors are Rena Wilson, Darcy Freegard, Drew Simmons, Donna Petersen, and Linda Simmons.

The show will benefit the Mancos Valley Historical Society. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Hors d'oeuvres will be served, and there will be a cash bar. All comers are encouraged to wear their western garb.

The show was written by Linda Simmons, who calls it a "variety show with a twist," since 10 musical and poetic acts are woven into the humorous play. Peggy Bade shares her rip-roaring piano music while vocalists Rayne Grant, Rick Randolph, Lynne Belle Lewis, and Doug Figgs also will entertain. Dulcimer, ukelele, guitar, and fiddle renditions will be provided by Koko Smith, Beth Wheeler, Herb Folsom, and Tawny Uptain in turn.

Tickets are on sale at the Mancos Visitors' Center: $15 adults, $25 couples, and $5 children. They can also be purchased at the door.