Director Brendan Murray successfully stimulated a sold out audience's curiosity on Friday night with this deliciously dark summer theatre offering from Sheringham Little Theatre.
Originally filmed by Alfred Hitchcock in 1954, Frederick Knott's classic thriller follows the murderous intent of a retired sportsman and his wife and the inevitable mix of deceit and truth that ensues.
Key to this production was the immensely impressive performances of the professional cast. Rachel Nottingham was faultlessly believable as Margot Wendice; Matt Jamie as Tony and Paul Huntley-Thomas as Captain Lesgate too. Peter Ormond (Max Halliday) and Steve Banks' calmly dogged (Inspector Hubbard) provided confident and convincing support.
A beautifully accurate and detailed set provided the backdrop, a wonderfully lit gothic 1950's parlour, which matched the right tone. The constant sound of a sonorous ticking clock was a measured metronome of menace, guiding the perfectly paced dialogue. The costumes were apt and well chosen to suit the period.
All good stage thrillers quiet their audience with tension, and this houseful was very quiet. A wonderful production, beautifully staged, and absorbingly performed.
'Dial 'M' for Murder' runs until Wednesday 7th August. Tickets available online or by telephone on 01263 822347. Prices: £14.00 - £21.00.
SLT's summer theatre season continues with Alan Ayckbourn's 'Absurd Person Singular' (August 9-17), James Cawood's 'Sunkissed' (August 21-28), and The Goodale Brothers' 'Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense' (August 30 - September 4)
CHRIS SADLER
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