Something is up at the English country manor where Colonel Calvarley lives. Just what is up? That may take some time, and a few laughs, to figure out.

The comedic murder mystery “Clever Dick” debuts Jan. 24 at the Jewel Box Theatre in Poulsbo. The show will take the stage through Feb. 15: Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. on Jan. 26 and Feb. 2, 9, and 16.

The play is a humorous look at class in English culture, told through a murder mystery.

“ ‘Clever Dick’ is a British comedy and murder mystery that has it all: murder, intrig

ue, humor in abundance and romance of a sort,” Director Hand Hayden said.

Hayden said he hadn’t heard of the play before, but after one reading of the script he jumped at the opportunity to put it on stage in Poulsbo.

“This show is a hilarious and candid view into the upper class, the lower class, and those without class,” he said. “It also holds a deeper message — do not judge others, lest ye be judged and found wanting.”

The play is advertised as having some mature content. Hayden said that the play is not a “dirty” show, and he has maintained a PG-13 rating for his production.

“I would say the show is definitely not for kids because they would have far too many questions in the ‘Mom, what does that mean?’ vein,” Hayden said, further noting that audiences can expect slight coarse language, a lot of innuendo and a man in his boxers for 20 seconds.

Hayden said the show is ultimately a comedy and good for a laugh, with the bonus of a good message.

“Being a murder mystery there is certainly a sense of suspense and intrigue to the show, but the stronger theme of the show is comedy,” he said. “This show is absolutely hilarious. Period.”

“No matter what  you do, say, feel or think, you have the right to be the person you are,” he added. “And if anyone takes umbrage to that, it is their own fault.”

Tickets are $16 for adults, $14 for seniors, students or military, and can be purchased at www.brownpapertickets.com or 800-838-3006.