Murder for Two, a musical comedy with books, music and lyrics by Joe Kinosian and Keller Blair, is playing at the Octagon Theatre in Bolton until June 27. Directed by Caroline Leslie, this re-imagining sets the play in a BBC radio studio in 1959, blending film noir and Hollywood nostalgia.
Two Actors, 13 Characters
The production features multi-talented performers Lucy Keirl and Tom Babbage, who between them play all 13 characters. When a scheduled radio programme is cancelled at the last minute, two studio technicians are tasked with presenting a murder mystery play: the famous novelist Arthur Whitney has been found dead at his birthday party, and detectives are out of town.
Enter local cop Marcus Moscowicz (Tom Babbage), who dreams of climbing the ranks. He aims to prove his sleuthing skills and solve the murder before the real detective arrives. Mayhem ensues as Marcus whittles down the many suspects and reveals the murderer.
Madcap Comedy and Virtuoso Musicianship
Tom Babbage and Lucy Keirl are at the absolute top of their game, with madcap comedy and music careering ahead non-stop. Hilarious sound effects punctuate the action, and both actors demonstrate incredible acting skills along with virtuoso musicianship. Either one or both are constantly at the keyboard, underpinning the songs and dialogue, which never falter. The pair also engage the audience with spontaneous ad-lib, comic asides, knowing looks and in-jokes delivered with impeccable timing.
Lucy Keirl provides an acting masterclass, seamlessly portraying all the suspects. She switches back and forth between characters at lightning speed while delivering a huge repertoire of songs. With no costume changes, just an alteration of stance, expression or accent, Lucy becomes the murder victim’s widow, a flirtatious French ballerina, a German psychologist, an eager niece, a quarrelling married couple, a slightly unhinged fireman, and three young members of a boys’ choir.
Imaginative Set Design
The creative team designed an imaginative set that incorporates the feel of a 1950s sound studio and the impression of a country house drawing room, complete with grand piano.
Don’t miss this joyously clever and funny show at the Octagon Bolton. Tickets available at octagonbolton.co.uk.
