If you love a good mystery, then the return of the Scotland County Literacy Council's Mystery Theater fundraiser should be right up your investigative alley.

On July 16-17, the nonprofit agency will present "The Curse of the Comet" in the banquet room of Captain Larry's Seafood Restaurant at 6:30 p.m. Set in 1945, the story involves the untimely demise of famed archaeologist Myron Mason, whose disappearance coincides with the return of the noted "Hopkay" comet.

The play will be directed by Literacy Council Board Member Donna Young.

"Mr. Mason's work over the years has raised the ire and suspicions of various 'suspects'," Young said. "The audience will hear from the cast of characters as they recall the night of the murder, and it will be up to investigative teams composed of audience members to decide who is the guilty party."

Cast members include Jim Garrigus, Bob Salemme, Rick Hodges, Renee Jones, Rachel Gallman, and Carey Garrigus.

Hodges portrays Ramon Hopkins, who has a "great interest" in the comet's curse.

"Hopkins believes in the power of the curse, and attends a party on the eve of the comet's return in order to see the curse fulfilled," Hodges said.

"Audience members should enjoy listening to the characters explain what has happened, and will have the opportunity to pool their wisdom to discover the murderer's identity before the police detective can do so."

Young encourages everyone to take part in what she calls a fun evening that both "gets people thinking" and contributes to the literacy council's mission.

"We invite you to bring your best investigative skills and come out to support the work of the literacy council," Young said. "Tables are available for teams of six to eight persons, so gather your family and friends and join us for this entertaining production."

Tickets are $25 each or $40 per couple, with all but $9 of the ticket price tax deductible. Reservations are "strongly encouraged", according to Young.

The Scotland County Literacy Council serves adult residents who need assistance improving their reading, writing, and math skills, and also offer classes geared toward the completion of GED requirements and various work certificate programs. Volunteer tutors are available for one on one instruction.

For more information or to purchase tickets, contact the Literacy Council at 276-7007 or Young at 277-8848.