A real-life mystery is set to intrigue theatre goers, four years after it puzzled the world’s media.

In 2005 a mute young man caused a media frenzy after emerging from the sea in a black suit.

His story will now be told in a quirky comedy as part of Brighton Festival Fringe.

Piano Man follows the tale of the mysterious man who was taken to a psychiatric unit for observation. During his treatment he drew a picture of a grand piano and according to the press, played like a classical pianist.

The play, which is being performed by Brighton-based Second Impression Theatre, has been written by David Weedall and is the 14th show the company has performed at the fringe.

Mr Weedall said: “Like many people I followed the story in 2005 with some fascination. It really was such an unusual quirky story.

“It was prolonged over several months and at the time I didn’t quite work out how it all finished. Then speaking to a lot of people I realised they didn’t know either so I did some research to find out how it had progressed.”

The play also follows an offbeat young female journalist who has resolved to unravel the bizarre mystery.

Mr Weedall said: “It seemed to attract a large amount of the world’s media. There were journalists outside the hospital in Kent for several months. Towards the end of the time Hollywood producers were turning up hoping to buy the rights to the story and Max Clifford was on the case.

“But in fact none of that actually happened and the way the story ended was quite bizarre.

“When I wrote the play I spent a large amount of time researching. My intention was to get as close to the truth as possible, although the only truth you can get is what has been reported in the media.”

Piano Man will be performed at The Friends’ Meeting House in Ship Street, Brighton from May 13 to 16 at 9pm.

Tickets, £7.50 or £6.50 for concessions, are available on 01273 709709 or at www.brightonfestivalfringe.org.uk.