“I’ve killed 52 people, says Scott Gabelein, as the curtain goes up on Dial M for Murder.But that’s only because Gabelein’s character, Max Halliday, is a mystery writer. In the Whidbey Playhouse production of the classic murder mystery, which opens Friday, the writer is caught up in just one murder, but it’s the wrong one.Actress Chrissie Stephens is trapped in the tangle, too. As Margot Wendice, she is first set up to be the murder victim, then she’s accused of murder herself. And her plotting husband, played by Jon W. Conroe, dances deftly back and forth between the two situations.That leaves it up to Inspector Hubbard, nicely under-played, by Jack McPherson, to sort out who dunnit in the tradition of British mystery tales.Extra roles are played by producer Ken Bates and stage manager Elizabeth Knapp. The strong cast, directed by Helen Bates, plays out the drama on a beautifully set stage designed and executed by Berry Meaux, Carol Steele and Carol Douthitt. Tickets are on sale now. Performance datesDial M for Murder takes the stage for Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows on these dates: June 2, 3, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24. Thursday shows are at 7:30 p.m., Friday and Saturday showtime is 8 p.m.Sunday Matinees are set for 2:30 p.m. on June 11 and 18.Bargain Thursday, when tickets are priced $6, is June 8. Regular ticket prices: adults, $11; senior (60+), $9; youth (4-17), $9. Children under age 4 are not admitted Call 679-2237 for ticket information. “