Dial M for Murder – Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

Writer: Frederick Knott
Director: Josh Mathieson

The play that inspired Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic 1954 film of the same name, Dial M for Murder, returns to the stage in this faithful adaptation from Phil & Ben Productions, directed by Josh Mathieson. A classic tale of deception, betrayal and murder, the story follows ex-Tennis star Tony Wendice as he hatches an elaborate plan to have his unfaithful wife Margot killed, setting in motion a tightly wound chain of events where nothing is quite as it seems. With its intricate plotting, sharp twists and deliciously dark sense of suspense, this enduring thriller proves that, even after more than seventy years, there’s still plenty of life in its familiar story.

The curtain rises on the Wendices’ elegant London flat, which is to provide the setting for the entirety of the drama that unfolds. Andy Newell’s set makes for the perfect backdrop, initially presented as a lavish sitting room where Margot entertains her lover, American crime writer Max Halliday, surrounded by stylish period furnishings and a decidedly well-stocked drinks cabinet, but also a constant reminder of her husband in the form of plentiful tennis trophies lining the shelves.

Clever lighting design from Paul Debreczeny takes us through the changes in time, as shadows and darkness fall over the flat and the atmosphere shifts with them. The once intimate space becomes increasingly claustrophobic as Tony’s carefully constructed plan begins to take shape, with the central staircase and multiple entrances becoming increasingly significant as the action unfolds. What initially feels like a comfortable and affluent apartment gradually takes on a more sinister quality, with its familiar surroundings becoming the stage for deception, danger and murder.

We are first introduced to Margot Wendice and her lover Max Halliday, whose relationship immediately sets the wheels of the story in motion. There is an easy chemistry between the pair, with Tanya-Loretta Dee capturing Margot’s warmth while Simon Pothecary brings a likeable charm to Max. Their sweet reunion, however, is undercut by the revelation that their affair may no longer be a secret, and Margot is being blackmailed by an unknown person.

Enter Margot’s husband Tony Wendice, who initially appears every bit the charming and suave gentleman, with Pete Ashmore bringing plenty of charisma to the role, making Tony an initially likeable presence. But there is a growing sense that something isn’t quite right, as a strange phone call and a few suspicious actions leave the audience wondering what exactly he has up his sleeve.

Soon, Tony starts to set in motion an elaborate plan, drawing an old acquaintance, known as Charles Lesgate, into his scheme and entrapping him into carrying out a devious plan to murder Margot and access her inheritance. Phil Stewart gives an assured performance as Lesgate, adding another layer of tension as he becomes increasingly caught up in Tony’s plans. From here, the pace really starts to pick up as the various pieces of the scheme fall into place, with the audience left waiting to see whether Tony’s carefully constructed plan will actually work.

The tension builds as the murderous scheme is put into action, but as things take an unexpected turn, Tony finds himself having to work harder to stay one step ahead and keep the situation under his control. The arrival of the scrutinising Chief Inspector Hubbard, played with vigour by Katy Dean, brings a fresh dynamic to the story as she begins to piece together what has happened. Yet Tony is determined to keep her looking in the wrong direction, leading to some wonderfully frustrating moments as he attempts to manipulate the police investigation, while the audience will for his downfall. The twists and turns are cleverly handled, keeping the audience guessing and making for an exciting and suspenseful watch, as the investigation unfolds.

Overall, with its strong core performances and clever staging, Dial M for Murder proves that this classic thriller still knows how to keep an audience hooked. The twists keep the audience guessing, the dark humour gives the drama some welcome lighter moments, and the performances bring plenty of charm and character to the story. Ultimately, this is a gripping, entertaining production that delivers plenty of suspense and makes for a thoroughly enjoyable night at the theatre.

Runs until 26 September 2026 and on tour