Marian Clay

Return Engagement Marian Clay

Setting is the New York theater district, 1946. Bill Flanagan and Dan Shaw, Army buddies from World War II audition for a new musical and become part of the cast of Gentlemen Again. Both men are fascinated by the beautiful chorus girls. Bill wrangles dates for them and falls in love with Jen Kelly. Dan's quiet nature takes a back seat to Bill's outgoing personality. Director Brian Casey molds a cast of newcomers into a near perfect production and is furious when the producers insist he hire maverick comedian Jack Boyd as the headliner. Boyd is a troublemaker, known for his pompous, arrogant attitude. Off stage the cast tries to avoid him but his inflated ego won't allow him to accept rejection. As a payback for his dirty tricks the comedian is the target of a hoax. He threatens everyone he thinks was involved. Boyd surprises everyone on opening night by publicly crediting the young director with the show's success. Most of the cast attend the wedding of Jen Kelly and Bill Flanagan. Brian Casey proves himself an excellent entertainer and is the life of the party at their reception. Prominent ticket broker Josh Golden introduces Marianne Gordon, his top agent, to the cast. Dan Shaw and Marianne are attracted to each other right from the start. Their true feelings come out when they are stranded for hours on an amusement park ride that malfunctions. They are open and honest with each other, but she's afraid their emotions will interfere with his promising career and suggests they put them on hold for now. She thinks marriage would stifle his chances for success. Jen tries to calm her fears but is only partially successful. Jack Boyd is murdered. Police focus on Brian Casey as the prime suspect. The Crew know Brian is innocent and Marianne lets him know they are all aware of his off hours gay activities. Reporter Paul Gray meets old friend Marianne and she introduces him to the cast. Paul digs up information on Boyd's past that leads to the killer. Paul is the hero, but Dan