Murder in the Dark

The Alexandra Theatre

Birmingham

7th November - 11th November 2023

Act I - 45 minutes

Interval - 20 minutes

Act II - 45 minutes

Original Theatre, Trafalgar Theatre Productions & JAS Theatricals present 'Murder in the Dark' by Torben Betts and directed by Philip Franks. With a winning combination of creatives comprising of Simon Kenny (Designer), Paul Pyant (Lighting Designer) and Max Pappenheim (Sound Designer and Composer) provide what one can only describe as a visual and audio treat of horror and the paranormal. It's both eerie and spine tingling; a definite edge of the seat experience!

Now with this review it reminds me of Agatha Christie's 'The Mousetrap,' as quoted by the cast in that production if you know anyone else who is coming to watch Mousetrap... 'You are now our partners in crime and must keep the identity locked in your heart.' In comparison 'Murder in the Dark' requests that those who have seen it 'spread the word (but not the spoilers).' And therefore there are no spoilers contained within!

The one scene set is an isolated holiday cottage and home of Mrs Bateman (Susie Blake) somewhere in a remote and rural part of England. Danny, a problematic singer, along with his extended family are involved in a car crash and the troubled Danny starts to experience a sequence of unfathomable and bewildering events that begin to occur. A ghost story which will thrust you into darkness and have you on the edge of your seats throughout until the final chilling twist.

Personally I felt it was slow to start, but gained momentum and accelerated as the plot thickened in the latter moments; leaving you pondering on the revelations that have unraveled before you!

An early word of caution if you are intending to see this production as it contains STROBE, flashing lights, haze and loud noises. It also contains scenes which depict elements of drug and alcohol abuse, murder and suicide, strong language and child abuse is mentioned.

A small and diverse cast of six with a wealth of stage and screen experience bring this haunting showcase to the boards.  A cleverly written play entwined with elements of comedy, on occasions perhaps too many jovial moments; although the audience loved it. The cast appeared very relaxed and enthused with their roles and graced the stage with an air of confidence, vigour and passion. Susie Blake (Mrs Bateman) and Tom Chambers (Danny) lead, with Rebecca Charles (Rebecca), Jonny Green (Jake), Owen Oakeshott (William) and Laura White (Sarah) supporting eloquently.

Spine tingling and dark moments increase in Act II leaving you gripped, tense and twitchy with some elaborate lighting, sudden noises and a stage set that moves slightly to create poignant moments. In conclusion the culmination of the storyline is not straightforward and may leave you confused, with more questions than answers. It would be mundane and not of interest if it concluded with the 'usual thriller' finale!

Gripping, tense and suspenseful - is this a 'Trick or treat' of a play?

An overall rating of 4/5 stars, however for a sensational set, visual and sound effects a definite 5/5 stars!

'Murder in the Dark' is at The Alexandra Theatre until Saturday.