Derby Theatre review: Dial M for Mayhem is slapstick perfect for whole family

I had never thought Hitchcock would make me laugh, but then I hadn’t watched Dial M for Mayhem at Derby Theatre. 

Dial M for Murder is the 1954 Hitchcock classic.

Based on English playwright Frederick Knott’s play about a former tennis star who arranges the murder of his adulterous wife, the black-and-white thriller still leaves me on the edge of my seat, even after watching it numerous times over the years.

Would Dial M for Mayhem leave me similarly entertained?

The ‘play within a play’ is based on an acting troupe preparing for a show at a village hall in the highlands of Scotland. 

Everything that can go wrong, does invariably go pear-shaped.

Mishaps befalling the merry band of actors include a powercut, jammed doors, an escaped rat and misplaced props that lead to hilarity.

I thought the timing of the play set in 1991, was interesting, as it drew pertinent parallels to the state of public finances that are still relevant today. 

One scene in particular, where Joey Lockhart’s hitman is ‘mid murder’ of Isabella Inchbald’s Margot, was so comical, the audience’s guffaws took several minutes to die down.

Middle Ground Theatre Company’s world stage premiere is a coup for Derby Theatre. 

The play, which is slapstick comedy, also touches on serious issues blighting the creative industry. 

A stellar cast worked hard to portray a range of emotions.

Alasdair Baker’s booming voice added Shakespearan levels of drama and a somewhat sombre gravitas to proceedings.

Isabella Inchbald played the coquettish Margot well, but who could also switch up her routine to play the feisty heroine unafraid to stand her ground. 

Eliza Langland, Theo Woolford and Luke Rhodri all have great comic timing, while scene stealer Joey Lockhart played his dual role with aplomb. 

The play will appeal to anyone who wants escapism for a few hours, as laughs are guaranteed touching various topics, including politics.

I think those familiar with the Hitchcock film Dial M for Murder will enjoy the play more, as the hilarious absurdity of the pivotal ‘death by pencil’ scene will draw comparisons to the original murder in the film. 

For a theatrical treat that people of all ages will enjoy, visit Derby Theatre to watch Dial M for Mayhem.

Dial M for Mayhem is showing at Derby Theatre till September 7, 2024. 

Location: Derby Theatre, 15 Theatre Walk, Derby DE1 2NF 

For more information click here.