Review: Dial M for Mayhem
A travelling theatre company are touring the remote Scottish Highlands with their new production, the classic 1950’s thriller Dial M For Murder using the local village halls as their venues.
After fighting their way through a storm, the group arrive at their next venue, Loch Shindig Village Hall and are greeted by caretaker, Jean, who shows them around and leaves them to set up their props ready for that night’s performance.
However, all is not well within the company with squabbling actors, illness, injuries, a broken-down tour van, power cuts and an escaped pet rat… It’s not looking good for opening night!
Add, to that an unruly sheepdog in the audience, a bout of food poisoning and a missing pair of scissors, the production soon descends into chaos.
Middle Ground Theatre Company presents Dial M For Mayhem! At the New Wolsey Theatre. A brand new production that is full of humour and had audience members laughing from the start. Dial M For Mayhem! Is a play within a play telling the story of a struggling company as they prepare for their show. The action then switches to the chaos back stage and there is as much drama off stage as there is on…
A clever use of set allows the audience to see the action both ‘on stage’ and what’s happening behind the scenes. A cast of talented actors bring the story to life, playing ‘not so talented actors’ with ease. The introduction of the AA man was particularly fun and local farmer Alasdair McGilivary and his unruly sheep dog brought some very funny comic lines to the production.
Overall Dial M For Mayhem! Makes for a very enjoyable evening at the theatre. If you want something with a feel-good vibe that will make you laugh then this show is for you.
Dial M For Mayhem! Will be at the New Wolsey Theatre until 22nd March. To book tickets visit the Box Office at www.wolseytheatre.co.uk
Review: Wendy Cook – Ipswich24 Magazine