Murder Afoot

Murder Afoot, by Knut Naerum (a new author to me), is a cleverly-written, fast moving comedy whodunit, with many twists and turns in its plot to keep the audience guessing right to the end. I won’t even attempt to describe the story, it was so full of false identities and convoluted motives that everyone had a motive for either committing the murders or confessing to them; no one knew which Inspector Bullock was the real one or who had stolen the Etruscan dagger.

The Highbury Players’ Cowboys deserve full marks for the very impressive box set that greeted us, representing the drawing room of The Arches, a stately mansion and home to the Platt dynasty of shoe makers. The furniture and props that graced the room were of top quality too and entirely in keeping with the setting. The costumes conveyed the right atmosphere although they seemed a little modern for the 1930s’ setting, with the notable exception of the beautiful dress worn by Colette. Lighting and sound effects were excellent and the use of torches in the second act was inspired, and most effective.

Director Laura Willis has chosen a confident cast, who all worked well together. Toni Tovery was on good form as housekeeper Miss Grimlish, her stentorian voice barely able to conceal her love for her employer Titus Platt, a solid performance by Roger Mitchell (who doubled as the second Inspector Bullock). Stuart Dickenson was spot-on as Malcolm Platt, the wastrel son and heir, maintaining his characterisation well all the way through. He was partnered perfectly by Elena Martinez-Blanco, every inch the French seductress and flexible nightclub singer - and what an excellent, unaccompanied singer she is too. Kate Burrows and Brendan McCarthy made a good innocent, newly engaged couple (Penny Platt and Thomas Tottering), although it later emerges that were not so innocent. Julie Williams was convincing as Platt’s personal assistant and Garry Hutchings gave a nicely understated performance as Drake the new Chauffeur, who turned out to be a Chief Inspector, and Amy Gould was beautifully cheeky and nosey as housemaid – and later heiress – Livia. Dene Woods turned in an accomplished performance as the real Inspector Bullock. His character has some of the best lines in the play and he delivered them with great relish.

This was a hugely enjoyable play with some very clever lines and laugh out loud comedy moments. While Act 1 felt a little slow at times, the pace ramped up after the interval and Act 2 really delivered the goods, with confusion and laughter all the way. Well done everyone.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.