Murder mystery will slay ’em in the aisles…

AN intriguing thriller full of twists and turns is guaranteed with Melville Theatre’s production of Strictly Murder this June.

Written by Brian Clemens and directed by Brenda Stanley, the play is set just before World War II – but all is not as it seems, after an English couple settle in the tranquil French countryside, and a series of double-crosses and surprises unfold.

Playwright Clemens was the most prolific scriptwriter of cult classic The Avengers and also creator of iconic television crime drama The Professionals.

He has penned 38 movies, including Highlander II with Sean Connery and See No Evil with Mia Farrow, along with 14 plays.

Brenda chose to direct Strictly Murder because she is a fan of mysteries and thrillers with good plots and had previously directed a play by Clemens.

“I always look for plays that are fairly new and hopefully haven’t been seen around Perth much before,” she said.

“This one kept me interested from the first moment of reading it, right up to the end.

“It’s a fast-moving thriller full of lies, subterfuge and murder with a series of events that become more complicated and frightening as the play progresses.”

Brenda said designing a good set will be one of the main challenges because the old farmhouse on stage must evoke the 1939 period.

“We also have to include German voices on radio and ensure the timing of the action is done at exactly the right pace,” she said.

Involved in theatre for the past 36 years, Brenda was a founding member of Wanneroo’s Limelight Theatre, is a life member of Darlington’s Marloo Theatre and has been extensively involved with the Old Mill, Harbour, Garrick, Kwinana and Melville Theatres.

In that time, she has directed 22 plays, costumed 42 and designed sets for 13 productions and has won numerous awards – but Strictly Murder marks her last time as a director because she is choosing to retire from the active theatre circuit.

“This is a great play to be going out on because it’s a really good thriller, which I’m sure audiences will enjoy,” Brenda said.

Strictly Murder plays at 8pm, June 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18 and 19 with a 2pm matinee on June 6. Tickets are $17, $13 concession – book on 9330 4565 or email melville.theatre.company@gmail.com.

Melville Theatre is on the corner of Stock Road and Canning Highway, Palmyra.