Festival Theatre, Malvern – until 13th April 2024
Reviewed by Courie Amado Juneau
5*****
Sleuth was playwright Anthony Shaffer’s debut – and what a way to start! Written (so the informative programme reveals) at the behest of his twin brother who thought it time that Anthony fulfilled his promise (and destiny); I’m glad that he was prodded into action.
The plot involves a wealthy writer inviting his wife’s lover round to discuss the unfolding situation and, in the course of the discourse, he comes up with a surprising and rather novel solution to the “problem”.
The set was a resplendent affair that convincingly transported us to a rather grand country home. Suitably dressed with all the nick-nacks one would find in an actual home, many of which caught my interest, it was a testament to a wonderful creation from Set and Costume Designer Julie Godfrey.
Sat at the desk as the curtain rises, tapping away at his typewriter – I still love the sound of a proper typewriter which takes me back to a more refined time – is Andrew Wyke (homeowner, writer and husband of the piece) played with gloriously off-kilter aplomb by Todd Boyce. Setting his stall out early with a highly theatrical reading from his latest fictional work, this wonderfully evocative portrayal delighted from start to finish. But there was far more to this character than originally met the eye and I loved the relish with which he took some rather surprising turns – and yet, though the character went through an at times jarring journey, the character remained true to himself. An enormously enjoyable and convincing performance from an actor on top form.
Soon enough Milo Tindle (Neil McDermott) arrived and the fun and (mind) games truly began. Tindle is a marvellous, rounded character giving us a perfect foil for Wyke to play against. A superbly judged, nicely nuanced performance that ran the gamut of emotions throughout. It’s difficult to wax lyrical in unbridled fashion without giving the plot away but Mr McDermott’s performance was fully fleshed out and wildly enjoyable. I was taken with his use of emotion and ability to dramatically pivot rapidly to change the entire complexion of a scene.
Director Rachel Kavanaugh revelled in the inherent dark humour (as did both of the actors) to great effect. The back story and unseen characters were also cleverly weaved in giving us the impression of a much larger cast and world than the one we are physically presented with on stage.
The opening act laid the foundations culminating in a spirited, shocking ending which made the mouth water in anticipation of a second act that turned out to be even better! This celebration of the plot twist a la Hitchcock’s famous TV show, left us perpetually wondering who was playing who and for what purpose.
I thoroughly enjoyed Sleuth, a play which keeps you thrillingly on the edge of your seat and generated much debate during the journey home. This latest production brings it to life with gusto and I’m sure the playwright would have thoroughly appreciated this impressive revival. I’m equally sure it’ll remain a very popular presence on stages everywhere and I, for one, thoroughly recommend it. Wickedly enthralling 5 star entertainment