The Unveiled Truth: A Review of The Perfect Murder Play
The adversities of COVID-19 have been lessening, and the world is gradually embracing normalcy again. The theater industry, too, slowly but steadily, is rebuilding its charm and allure that has been missed for over two years.
The much-loved Summer Play Festival returns to Sidmouth, marking its first full 12-week season since 2019. This grand re-opening is initiated with a riveting thriller, ‘THE PERFECT MURDER’, penned by Peter James and Shaun McKenna.
The Evolution of Stage Thrillers
Thrillers used to dominate the stage during the mid-20th century, and many of these classics are still alive and cherished today; revealing their timeless appeal. However, this modern stage thriller, based on a novella written by a top-ranking contemporary crime writer, gives the audience an opportunity to experience a more updated version of theatrical charm.
The Perfect Murder: A Plot Full of Twists and Laughs
The plot revolves around Victor and Joan Smiley’s marital discord. Victor, who is engrossed in classic detective stories, plans to murder his wife, claim the life insurance money, and start anew with his lover, Kamila, a sex worker. However, unraveling the plot confirms that things are not as easy as they seem.
The narrative amalgamates elements of police procedural, horror, psychological thriller, and even the spirit world, giving the audience a thrilling journey throughout. The dialogues, full of witty banter and modern cultural references, engage the viewers promptly.
The Illusion: A Multi-room Set
Stage director Andrew Beckett has devised a multi-room set, which enhances the overall impact of the show. The atmospheric lighting along with themes from TV detective shows add depth to the performance canvas.
Stellar Performances
Dafydd Gwyn Howells and Bridget Lambert convincingly portray a couple on the brink of their relationship, trading insults with evident ease. The tension is palpable as they engage the audience’s heartstrings. Heather Wilkins, playing the role of a sex worker, shines with her insightful contributions to police investigations.
The character Don, Joan’s lover, is brought to life by Alec Fellows-Bennett, and his rhyming slang adds a touch of humor to the plot. The consistent presence of DC Roy Grace, a character recurring in Peter James’ works, is commendably played by Owen Landon.
Director’s Vision
Anton Tweedale masterfully directs the play, perfectly blending tension with moments of humor. While the play may be slightly lengthy, it is paced well and keeps the audience engaged. The plot may have its flaws, but that’s what makes it more relatable and human.
The Perfect Murder: A Modern Thriller for Our Times
This play presents a refreshing take on modern thrillers, opening the Sidmouth Summer Play Festival with a mix of laughs and suspense. Catering to diverse tastes, it has all the ingredients to be a crowd favorite.
A Closer Look at the Cast:
- Dafydd Gwyn Howells: Known for his compelling performances, Howells breathes life into the character of Victor Smiley;
- Bridget Lambert: Portraying Joan Smiley, Lambert exhibits a spectacular blend of vulnerability and strength, adding depth to her character;
- Heather Wilkins: Playing the role of Kamila, Wilkins delivers a multi-dimensional performance that contributes significantly to the plot;
- Alec Fellows-Bennett: In the role of Don, Joan’s lover, Bennett is the comic relief in this thrilling plot;
- Owen Landon: As DC Roy Grace, Landon brings consistency and adds a sense of familiarity for those acquainted with Peter James’ writing.
Audience’s Verdict
‘The Perfect Murder’ has been well received by the audience, given their appetite for modern thrillers. The performances by the main cast have been widely appreciated and the clever use of props, along with atmospheric lighting, amplifies the overall experience. The audience has especially lauded the seamless blend of humor and suspense, making the play a delightful watch.
Key Takeaways
| Key Aspects | Details |
|---|---|
| The Event | Sidmouth Summer Play Festival’s first full 12-week season since 2019 |
| Opening Act | ‘THE PERFECT MURDER’ by Peter James and Shaun McKenna |
| The Encore | Revival of stage thrillers, a popular form of entertainment in the mid-20th century |
| The Plot | Victor’s plan to murder his wife Joan for life insurance is spiced up with elements from police procedural, horror, psychological thriller, and the spirit world |
| Setting Design | Andrew Beckett’s effective multi-room set highlighted by atmospheric lighting |
| Performances | Commendable performances by Dafydd Gwyn Howells, Bridget Lambert, Heather Wilkins, Alec Fellows-Bennett, and Owen Landon |
| Direction | Anton Tweedale’s skillful direction creates supreme moments of tension |
| Audience Verdict | The play is a refreshing modern thriller, greatly enjoyed for its mix of laughs and thrills |
Final Thoughts
The Perfect Murder, kicking off the Sidmouth Summer Play Festival, has proven to be a hit with audiences, delivering much-needed laughs and thrills. Its modern take on a thriller, coupled with an engaging plot and commendable performances, assures its place as a crowd-pleaser. It serves as an excellent choice to draw audiences back to the theaters, sparking a renewed love for live performances in the post-COVID world.
This captivating spectacle marks a resurgence of stage thrillers—a genre deeply cherished by theatre enthusiasts. The meticulously crafted plot, the ingenious multi-room set design, and the remarkable performances contribute to an experience that is both thrilling and amusing. Despite minor imperfections in the storyline, the play’s realistic portrayal of human flaws makes it even more engaging.
‘THE PERFECT MURDER’ has indisputably set the stage for what promises to be an enthralling 12-week season of the festival, offering an exciting blend of nostalgia and novelty. It seems clear that this production has accomplished its goal of rekindling the public’s love for live performances in the post-COVID era. As we eagerly anticipate what the rest of the season has to offer, the successful premiere of ‘THE PERFECT MURDER’ is a testament to the undying allure of the theatrical world.