Originally written for the stage, Dial M for Murder has been around since the early 1950s. But it’s probably best known as the stylish 1954 Hitchcock film starring Ray Milland and Grace Kelly.
This stage version is set in the 1960s with a lively soundtrack and a swish Maida Vale living room set with decor that’s pretty much back in fashion today. Clever lighting through patio doors and in the glass frame above the apartment’s front door add to the drama on set.
Tom Chambers stars as Tony Wendice, a jaded ex tennis pro who discovers his wife has been having an affair and sets out to get rid of her and inherit her wealth, all without getting his own hands dirty.
Chambers is excellent as the scheming, unhinged Tony who has calculated the crime down to the last detail, spending almost a year of his life in the planning. He has huge presence and brings an energy to the stage that fizzes and sparks as he adopts unusual poses and walks, a drippingly sarcastic and menacing way of speaking as well as some telling facial expressions which bring a little light hearted comic relief to the proceedings.
X factor star turned West End performer Diana Vickers plays Margot, his wife. An elegant stage presence, her performance blossoms in Act Two when she plays the desperate, vulnerable woman whose life is falling apart.
Michael Salami is Max Halliday – a crime writer who is in love with Margot. His performance really comes alive when he storms the stage in a desperate attempt to save her life.
Playing the dual role of Captain Lesgate and Inspector Hubbard is Christopher Harper. He’s great at both roles, but we particularly loved his understated Columbo-esque take on the inspector.
This psychological thriller will keep you guessing. Not about who’s killed who but about who might get away with it. It’s an old-fashioned crowd pleaser
It’s on from Tuesday 2 to Saturday 6 November at The New Theatre, Cardiff.
Tickets: From £15
Box Office: 0343 310 0041 www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk
For touring dates see: DialMformurderplay.com