The Business of Murder

I am never disappointed when I visit Wigan Little Theatre. I always get what’s on the label, whether it is a comedy, drama, musical, or murder mystery and this time was no exception as we were treated to a tense, psychological thriller with lots of twists and turns about revenge with the title of “The Business of Murder”, written by Richard Harris.

The story is set in the London flat of a man called Stone, he is a rather humourless and strait-laced man who is also rather creepy at times. He emits a feeling that something is not quite right. Stone lures successful television playwright Dee to the flat with the story that his terminally ill wife had written a script and she would like to meet Dee to give feedback about her writing. Dee is somewhat suspicious when Stone’s wife doesn’t materialise and is shocked when Detective Superintendent Hallet arrives at the flat, given the fact that Hallet is the man with whom she is having an affair, alarm bells begin to ring for both Dee and Hallet. However, nothing is as it seems, and the plot twists and turns, there are misleading clues and we are taken down wrong roads until finally we begin to see Stone’s motive for his actions, but still just when you think you have worked out what is happening there is a twist right at the end of the play.

This was an outstanding production very well directed by Stacey Vernon. It was a very wordy demanding play with just three cast members, they were Rich Higson as Stone. Jamie Roberts as Superintendent Hallet with Ayesha Morris as Dee, all three of these very talented actors gave an outstanding performance. They were exactly right for their roles and spot on with their characterisations, which were truly believable, and I am glad to say that all three actors maintained their characters all the way through the production, working well together, making good use of the stage area and demonstrating excellent stage craft. I would like to mention that Superintendent Hallet reminded me very much of a character straight from one of those seventies detective shows such as “The Sweeney”. The pace of the action was just right, the dialogue was clear, and could be heard very well which was very important for the success of this play with its twists and turns, this meant the audience could follow the plot and keep their attention centred on the action on stage.

When the curtains opened at the beginning of the performance my attention was grabbed straight away by the impressive set depicting Stone’s flat, a great deal of planning, design and hard work must have gone into its construction and decorating with appropriate props. The set design was by Peter Hall and John Gostelow, I liked the way the actors could be seen through a screen when they were in the bedroom it was effective and added mystery to the action, well done to Stage Manager John Naughton and all the backstage workers. Lighting sound and effects were very efficient, and along with costumes which were just right for the era, suited the characters, added to the roles and the authenticity of the production. 

Congratulations to everyone who was involved in bringing this outstanding production to the stage including front of house. My friend and I had a great time trying to work out where the plot was going and reason behind Stone’s behaviour. Thank you very much for inviting us.

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