Dial M for Murder, at Theatre Works - 2 hours, including interval ★★★★

A murderous plan, oh most foul.

That is at the heart of Dial M for Murder, written by Frederick Knott in 1952 and popularised by Alfred Hitchcock’s suspenseful movie two years later.

TV crime writer Max Halliday (Leon Walshe) visits Margot Wendice (Bridget Bourke) in her London apartment a year after the pair had a brief affair.

At the time, Margot’s marriage to tennis professional Tony (Tyrie Aspinall) was on shaky ground.

But now, Margot happily reports that things have turned around and she is quite secure.

Photos by Dave McCarthy

Little does she know that her husband is carrying a dangerous secret.

Tony, who subsequently gave up tennis and seemingly devoted himself to being a dutiful husband, discovered a letter (among several) that Max sent her.

Since then, with Margot’s substantial life insurance policy in play, Tony has been plotting to do away with her, fearful that a divorce would leave him penniless.

His elaborate scheme, involving former university acquaintance Captain Lesgate (Joshua Bruce), appears to be coming together, when things go awry.

Then, with the police – specifically Inspector Hubbard (Joshua Bruce again) – involved, Tony needs to act adroitly to deflect blame.

Will he get away with it or is the caper up?

I delighted in the historic feel of the piece, directed by Dean Drieberg.

The acting replicates that which you would see in a 1950s film, deliberately formal, reflective of the sensibilities of the era.

Making her impressive professional theatre debut, Bridget Bourke is respectful and cautious as wealthy socialite Margot.

Leon Walshe brings enthusiasm to his role as the wordsmith Max.

Manipulation is the currency in vogue for the scheming Tony. Tyrie Aspinall realises slippery and fearsome well.

Joshua Bruce channels desperate pragmatism as Captain Lesgate and a man on a mission as a member of the constabulary.

I felt that I had stepped onto the set of a period play, the simple design of which is the work of Jodi Hope.

All that was necessary was a free-standing door and fireplace, above which sits a mantlepiece, a little furniture, a drinks cart and a few props.

That is not to overlook the outline of an outdoor staircase.

Costuming by Betty Auhl stands out for the right reasons, starting with a flowing red dress to three-piece suits and more formal attire.

I happened to see Dial M for Murder on the day that would have been Hitchcock’s 126^th birthday.

So, that night patrons were treated to a special cake and a rousing rendition of happy birthday, before the candles were blown out.

As a production, with no shortage of dastardly conniving, the play was tense and held me tightly throughout.

It is on at Theatre Works until 16^th August, 2025.