The Perfect Murder

The Perfect Murder 
A play by Hugh Jane's adapted from a story by Jeffrey Archer
Presented and performed by Rainhill Garrick Society 
On Thursday, 16th October 2025 at Rainhill Community Centre, Danes Court, Rainhill

The Play opens in a middle-class English home with an agitated accountant confessing to his wife that he may have been involved in a murder! Following the discovery of a body and subsequent police involvement, the plot cleverly evolves in ways that would tax even the most enthusiastic Murder Mystery enthusiasts. 

Director ... Rosetta Parker's vision lifted the characters off the pages and brought them to life with subtlety and finesse. 

The Cast...
'John’ (Played by Peter Cliffe)
It’s difficult to portray a level of inner turmoil and anxiety for any actor; ideally the body Language should realistically convey the inner angst and Peter managed that!

‘Elizabeth’ (Played by Tracey Duffy)
It’s sometimes difficult to establish a character on stage in staccato scene changes. Tracey, you established your middle-class housewife character with conviction and belief. Your character's upbringing moulding her decisions, stoic and practical rather than emotional. Really well-done characterization consistent throughout. 

‘D.I Simmons’ (Played by Gerald Walker) & ‘Sergeant Davies’ (Played by Rob Williams)
Gerald and Rob created these two believable characters – it seemed like - "Just another day at the office, with a “seen it all before” type of attitude.  They created two lovely believable police officer characters, both with excellent rapport. Black humour delivered in a throw away manner with perfect comic timing. D.I. Simmons was frighteningly realistic in the Court Scene.

‘Maria’ (Played by Ruth Proffitt)
Good clear diction which was vital for the character to convey details to the plot. 

‘Paul’ (Played by Dave Asbridge)
The unfortunate insurance Salesman, all lines delivered with just the right amount of disbelief and bewilderment. 

‘Alan’ (Played by Tom Nevitt)
Redundancy lines delivered with perfect callous H.R Corporate Speak.

‘Judge’ (Played by Liz Munro)
The timbre and authority in the voice... perfection. The tilt of the head and facial expressions when chiding council ... perfection. You captured the sanctity and authority of the character with an understanding beyond your years. 

‘Mrs Scott Q.C.’ ... (Played by Sophie Brogan)
Perfectly cast as the less experienced foil to the formidable Sir Humphrey. 

The ‘Court Clerk’ ... (Played by Alison Mawdsley)
A lovely clear voice with the practiced deference to Authority. 

‘Sir Humprey’ (Played by Gordon O’Brien)
You brought Sir Humprey to life with authenticity. The Character's personality Perfectly blending into the scene.  A stand out performance. 

 ‘Dr Mallins’ (Played by George Lowe)
Realistic, matter of fact emotionless delivery of lines describing serious injuries. Total understanding of the character's role. 

The Court Scene ...  it would be remiss not to complement the creative set. Simplistic, cold and impersonal, effective on literally so many levels.  A credit to the Designer's and Builders... Joe Webster and Richard Parker 

When every person on stage is focused, involved and acting as though they are hearing the words of the principles for the first time, it draws the audience in. No coughing, sneezing or fidgeting. You could hear the proverbial pin drop. Be very proud!

Lights/Sound/Stage Tech ... were first rate and the scene changes impeccable. The Court Scene would not have looked out of place in any professional Theatre in the Country. 

A credit to Rosetta Parker and all involved in this production. 

David Davies
NODA NW
Assistant District 6 Rep

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