Who knew murder could be so delightful to watch? Okay, wait let me clarify, this show about murder was delightful to watch! I saw Dial M for Murder during its opening weekend at the Milwaukee Rep, and it was such a perfect way to spend my Sunday afternoon.
The original play Dial M for Murder was written by Fredrick Knott in 1952 and brought to cinemas by Alfred Hitchcock two years later. Then, the famous Alfred Hitchcock film adaptation was hit theaters in 1954. And in 2022, Jefferey Hatcher wrote this new adaptation of the classic thriller, bringing a modern twist to the tale. The 2022 play opens with two women, Margot Wendice and Maxine Hadley, former lovers who are talking about a blackmail letter Margot received.
Margot and Maxine go to a play, while Margot’s husband Tony stays behind at the apartment. Then a mysterious man shows up. And the chaos of the play begins.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
The set for this production was realistic, yet larger than life and whimsical. Its crooked ceiling and intricate details were as crooked and intricate as the play itself. When I saw the set as I walked in, I was instantly excited, knowing that at least visually, the play would not disappoint. And I was right – the costumes, the set, the props were all very much part of the storytelling, and it was exciting to see it all come together. There was so much detail and care put into it all, every moving part of the story, making me wonder which pieces were clues and which weren’t.
But the visuals are just one of the great things about this show. The actors put on a fantastic performance – keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout, holding my attention in the palms of their hands. I particularly loved the sly, smart nature of Maxine (Lipica Shah), and the funny – seemingly almost without trying – demeanor of Inspector Hubbard (Jonathan Wainwright). All the characters felt right at place in a murder mystery, reminiscent of classic characters of the genre, but each with their own twists.
I loved the suspense throughout the play, and yes, there are plenty of twists I never saw coming. It was fun to see what would happen next, and I thought the dramatic irony was gripping. We knew the truth, but we had to watch the play unfold despite it.
All in all, I had a lovely time watching this murderous play, and I think you will too. It runs at the Milwaukee Rep through Dec. 17, and tickets are available at Milwaukee Rep’s website.
