Bloody Murder

Characters are literally dropping like flies in the Pymble Players latest production, Bloody Murder.   Only six actors bring to life a vast array of characters as the murder-mystery-comedy twists and turns like an unpredictable roller coaster.

Gathering for a weekend party at a fabulous country estate that is conveniently isolated, the six stereotypical English murder mystery guests arrive. Dave Kirkham enters as the talkative former Army Major, his pompous rhetoric about India having little impact on the alcoholic fading actor played by Tim Burt.  Kirkham maintains integrity throughout and is reliably staunch.  Burt is sarcastic and droll and highly entertaining while continually drinking an endless supply of scotch.

The freeloading, worthless nephew character is brought to life with much excitement and flair by Todd Beilby who concurrently has his eye on the innocent ingenue played by Faith Jessel and the mysterious lady in red.  As the body count rises Beilby acts more and more like a kid in a candy store whereas Jessel has to display a much broader range of emotions as her character experiences a different journey, particularly in Act 2.

Hosting the ensuing madness in the rich dowager "Aunt" who is brought to life with cool control by Sandra Bass.  Bass is in charge of most of the proceedings until the maid, Liz Lynch, starts to assert herself.  Bass brings a reassuring calmness to the space while others are losing their heads.  Lynch begins as the harmless maid but then gathers momentum, throwing even more spanners into the works.

Why is this eclectic mix all there in the first place?  Who is poisoning/stabbing/shooting the guests?  Is there only one murderer?  Why does the hostess refuse to call the police?  Will they be able to solve it themselves and rewrite their destiny?

Margaret Olive has assembled a near perfect cast for this play and should be very satisfied with the end result.  All six actors bring their own specific energies on stage and the different personalities mesh together into the perfect casserole.  Special mention for Ian Ackland's set design which afforded the actors a variety of entry points despite the limited space.  I really appreciate the greatly varied scenic designs and decorations with every play that this group produces.  There seems to be no limit to the possibilities with the flats, doorways, arches, windows, French doors, windows, fire places, paintings, curtains and other furnishings.  It is always a visual feast at Pymble Players and this play is no exception to the rule.

Bloody Murder will play at the Pymble Players Theatre, Cnr Mona Vale Rd and Bromley Ave), Pymble until October 30th. Get along if you can.

Fiona Kelly

Photographer: Dan Ferris