A FORMER EastEnders actress is to take to the stage in a play based on a much-loved board game.

Michelle Collins will play Miss Scarlett in Cluedo at the Theatre Royal in New Road, Brighton, in June.

The 59-year-old, who played Cindy Beale in the BBC soap, said she is “thrilled” to join the cast, adding that she has fond memories of playing the game as a child.

The Argus: Daniel Casey and Michelle Collins, stars of CluedoDaniel Casey and Michelle Collins, stars of Cluedo

She said: “It is such an iconic game and I remember how much I loved playing it with my cousins when we were younger.

“I’m delighted that it’s being brought to the stage – and having really enjoyed reading the script, I’m sure audiences across the UK will love it.”

Michelle will star alongside Midsomer Murders star Daniel Casey as Professor Plum.

The Argus: Daniel Casey and Michelle Collins starring as Professor Plum and Michelle Collins Daniel Casey and Michelle Collins starring as Professor Plum and Michelle Collins

The pair visited the house in Dean Court Road, Rottingdean, that is said to have inspired the original board game.

After a 1937 refurbishment introduced a billiards room, ball room, ladies bar and restaurant, the Grade II listed property is reputed to have inspired Cluedo – with first editions of the board game called Murder at Tudor Close.

The property, formerly known as Tudor Close Hotel, was frequented by actors Cary Grant, Bette Davis, Errol Flynn and a young Julie Andrews.

The play is said to have been inspired by the Hasbro board game and the 1985 Paramount film Clue.

It has been directed by Mark Bell, known for working on the production The Play That Goes Wrong, and has been produced by Josh Andrews.

Producer Josh said: “We wanted an iconic actress to play such an iconic character and we could not be happier to have Michelle starring as Miss Scarlett in Cluedo.

“Both the game and Clue the movie, are much loved by all ages, so it’s a privilege to bring this new play of Cluedo to the UK stage and it could not be in more suitable hands than our director Mark Bell.

“He certainly knows how to deliver a night full of great fun and entertainment.”

Cluedo will be at the Theatre Royal from June 13 to 18 and tickets are available from https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/theatre-royal-brighton/