“A fun-filled night of comedy, creativity and a whole lot of chaos.”
Murder at Midnight playing at the Lowy Quay’s theatre is exactly the kind of night that delivers thrills, laughs and a plenty of unexpected twists. Written by Torben Betts and directed with precision by Philip Franks, this comedy-thriller blends the classic tension of a whodunnit with the absurdity of a farce and over the top performances, that delights audiences and gives an exciting night out at the theatre.
Set on New Year’s Eve in a large, cluttered Kent house, the play opens up with a chaotic start as police arrive on a crime scene for the ages. From there, audiences are taken back to only hours before to reveal how a seemingly ordinary night spirals dramatically into a murder scene. The plot is intentionally tangled and filled with double-crosses, secrets and misunderstandings which forms a fast-paced and very funny, if slightly ridiculous night full of twists and turns. One of the real strengths of this production is the cast. The performers are bold and energetic, fully committing to the over the top, tone of the script.
Jason Durr’s standout performance as Jonny “The Cyclops”, a notorious gangster whose bravado masks a whole lot of insecurities. Durr’s stage presence is dominating throughout the performance, balancing menace and theatrics so brilliantly. He swaggers across the stage commanding the room as he effortlessly brings his character to life.
Another memorable mention has to go to Susie Blake, who’s portrayal of Jonny’s eccentric and tarot obsessed mother steals so many scenes with her impeccable timing and unpredictable nature. It was a wonderful sight. Her character brought so much warmth and heart, and of course some comedy moments, it made her interactions with the rest of the cast some of the best parts of the play.
Max Bowden added a different intensity as the undercover police officer. His jittery nervousness contrasted with the more larger-than life characters that surround him onstage, but this added a different humour to the storyline that you wouldn’t get anywhere else. Meanwhile, Katie McGlynn brought the drama with all the antics her character, Jonny’s girlfriend, got up to that night. It really brought a new depth to the story and a lot of laughs along the way.
Special mentions must go to Bella Farr and Andy Mcleod as the Police officers for setting the scene right from the off. Also, to Callum Balmforth as Russel, the robber with a clown mask, who’s vulnerability really added to the scenes. Peter Moreton as Trainwreck really brought the twists and some very comical moments, whilst Iryna Poplavska plays the nervous carer Cristina who brings some new perspectives and edge to the storyline. The cast handle the precise timing and strong chemistry with practised ease which helps the scenes flow flawlessly.
The humour is at times dark and the violence is very exaggerated but the commitment from this cast to bring this masterpiece to the stage really makes it clear that this show will bean entertaining night for anyone who loves comedy, thriller and the fun of a whodunnit.
The script itself is sharp and packed with jokes, many of which land brilliantly thanks to the timing from the cast. There’s a lot going on at once, but rather than feeling confusing, it adds to the sense of chaos and fun. The multi-level set design adds a new layer, allowing different scenes to play out simultaneously and giving the audience plenty to watch. It feels busy, but in a way that suits the story.
Technically, the production is smooth. Lighting and sound are used effectively to heighten tension or underline punchlines, and the pacing rarely drops. The whole thing barrels towards its conclusion with a sense of gleeful madness that keeps the audience engaged right up until the end.
Overall, Murder at Midnight is a lively, fun and very unpredictable evening of theatre. It lets audiences be swept away in the chaos and mystery. It’s something a bit different to the typical murder mysteries, the comedy and farce of the show adds a special element to this production that makes it a must-see show. It certainly is one midnight audiences won’t want to miss.
Murder a Midnight plays at The Lowry until 24th January. Tickets are available here.