Charles Paris has landed a dual role in a lavish West End musical-onstage as a bit player, offstage as an undercover sleuth. The production's nervous backers fear that someone is trying to kill the play. The ultimate showstopper would be to eliminate the star.

One of England's most popular comedians, the star is adored by the public, despised in the business. The playwright wants to strangle him. The leading lady longs to stab him in the back. The young Lothario looks at him with fierce rage. Unless Charles turns the spotlight on the real behind-the-scenes saboteur before opening night, murder will take top billing.