Something dark, evil and deadly is loose on the streets of the island, and there are only two people who could possibly save the day.

Step forward Captain Hall and Joyce Kelly, the stars of ’A Garden of Teeth and Claws’, the latest original radio drama from the pen of Manx actor and writer Alexander Duncan.

Alexander and Lisa Kreisky will resume their roles as Hall and Kelly, who first appeared in Alexander’s first radio drama ’Whistle Once More for Jinny’, which was broadcast on Manx Radio over Christmas in 2019.

This time, the intrepid duo are faced with more terror as the Moddey Dhoo emerges to bring terror to the island, forcing them to face their own demons as well as the beast, which brings terror wherever it appears.

The plays are inspired by the classic British crime and horror traditions of Hammer and Mr James, with equal measures of Sherlock Holmes and Agatha Christie thrown in, and Alexander has taken gleeful delight in exploring both the genre and the space afforded him by creating a radio play, where the only constraints that surround you is what sound effects you can employ.

’I have loved writing this play,’ said Alexander.

’I have been sat at my computer giggling with excitement as I realise I can write myself into a sword fight if I want to. I haven’t any budget restraints that a film would have, so I am free to create any scenario that I want.

’I want a scene with a huge fight in the middle of 200 people? Why not?’

The play features a stellar cast of local talent, including Chloe Shimmin and Michelle James, Howard Caine, David Dawson, Lisa Creighton and many more.

Also taking part is TV actor Sarah Smart, a new island resident and professional actor who has appeared on some of the biggest shows on television in recent times, including Doctor Who, Wallander, Marple, Poirot and At Home with the Braithwaites, amongst many others.

She plays the role of the feisty, high-kicking Trixe Brown.

’What has made this radio play such a joy to put together is the absolute quality of people I have taking part.

’The talent that exists on this island is just incredible and this play is all the better for it. And, having someone with the experience and talent as Sarah does makes things even better.

’This is a true passion project for me and it takes the best part of a year, from writing, directing, producing, performing and editing. But I think we’ve got something really special here and I can’t wait for people to hear it. We’ve aimed high but the results have exceeded my expectations.

I really want it to be one of those special Christmas nights, where you gather around the radio and listen to a great piece of radio drama.’

’A Garden of Teeth and Claws’ will premiere on Manx Radio at 6pm on Monday, December 27, followed by a repeat on Monday, January 3.