Tag Archives: Richard Harris

THE BUSINESS OF MURDER

★★★

Theatre at the Tabard

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THE BUSINESS OF MURDER at Theatre at the Tabard

★★★

“interesting and witty”

The Business of Murder by Richard Harris returns to the stage at the Theatre at The Tabard this month. A play in which the genre could be described as a murder mystery or more like an ‘is there a murder?’ mystery.

The action takes place in the main character, Stone’s, living room of his one bed flat. Designed by Lily Minores and Rob McKinley, the naturalistic set consisted of a two person sofa, an armchair, a small kitchenette area, a little TV and a mysteriously large locked box amongst other items. There was a distinct 80s flavour to them, making the iconography aware audience know that the show was firmly set in that decade. Stone (Miles Gallant) has invited local Police Detective Hallet (Gary Webster) over to discuss his troublesome son, who is nowhere to be found. Hallet leaves, promising to later return, and we soon see Stone then invite local True Crime writer Dee (Charlotte Hunter) to meet his wife. Yet the audience knows Stone’s wife is dead. So why the rouse? The entrapment that follows is the crux of the play which fulfils Act Two, with some interesting reveals that sadly felt they were unveiled too early to sustain the excitement of the story.

The performances were stellar throughout, with every actor showing great detail and focus. Director Nick Bromley is clearly aware of the effect the intimate staging has on said performances – with the style being heavily naturalistic with elements of melodrama when needed. The use of space was one of the greatest drivers of action in this text heavy show, with the actors constantly moving and pacing and exploring the stage. This gladly meant the action never lulled. The stand out performance for me was Gary Webster’s Hallet, who delivers many witty quips as well as leading all the audience questions. Not only was his character charming and funny, but he also didn’t shy away from the ugliness of this self righteous and unapologetic man.

The show was mainly performed in a warm general wash (lighting by Nat Green) without the assistance of any music. I think this fitted well with the naturalistic setting of the piece and allowed the audience to really tune in with what was being said on stage.

Overall The Business of Murder was interesting and witty, let down by the second act’s length and its over explaining of plot reveals

 

THE BUSINESS OF MURDER at Theatre at the Tabard

Reviewed on 31st October 2024

by David Robinson

Photography by Matt Collins

 

 

 

 

 

 

Previously reviewed at this venue:

DUET | ★★★ | April 2024
THE SECRET GARDEN | ★★★★ | December 2023
ABOUT BILL | ★★★★★ | August 2023

THE BUSINESS OF MURDER

THE BUSINESS OF MURDER

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Stepping Out – 3 Stars

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Stepping

Stepping Out

Jack Studio Theatre

Reviewed – 21st June 2018

★★★

“There are moments where darker or more serious subjects are hinted at, which could have been pushed further”

 

“Remember the three T’s”, Mavis tells her class of tap dancers, prior to their first public performance. “Teeth, tits, and taps.” That’s right, it’s time to get those jazz hands out and tapping feet at the ready for the latest production of the heart-warming show Stepping Out. In an updated, 21st-century twist on the 1984 play by Richard Harris, this new version is charming and convivial, a bundle of easy-going joy to watch.

Former professional dancer Mavis teaches adult tap dancing classes every Thursday night in a grotty, north London church hall for the locals. The bumbling bunch of ladies, and Geoffrey, who regularly attend, lean more towards having two left feet than twinkle toes. And to top things off, Mavis must resolve the spats and dramas that explode between this motley crew, before any dancing can commence. Whilst the play may feature around (rather unsuccessfully) learning dance routines, it is the love, laughter, tears and tales these everyday folk share with one another that makes the audience want to keep coming back to class with them.

Christina Meehan as Mavis holds everything together wonderfully, giving a very naturalistic and earthy performance, a nice contrast to the loud, mouthy brashness of the likes of Sylvia (Jessica Brady) and Maxine (Lynn Beaumont). Emily Sitch and Sean McDowell give understated yet just as powerful turns as the quieter members of the group, Andy and Geoffrey. Whilst, Helen Jeckells as the no bars held OCD housewife Vera offers some of the best lines of comedy gold throughout the show.

The story may be rather slight, with no real dramatic plot line, but what makes this kitchen sink-style play so likeable, are the recognisable characters whom we all can associate to our own lives. It is the sense of familiarity that truly makes this a winner. There are moments where darker or more serious subjects are hinted at, which could have been pushed further, however, it must be remembered that class is a place where these characters throw away their everyday troubles and want to let loose. Consequently, with the addition of catchy classic swing band tunes and top hats and canes, you yourself will be tapping your way out of the theatre before you know it.

 

Reviewed by Phoebe Cole

Photography by David Ball

 


Stepping Out

Jack Studio Theatre until 7th July

 

 

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