Creator: Pinch Punch
Locomotive For Murder: The Improvised Whodunnit is a hilarious take on the classic murder mystery genre presented by improvisational comedy group Pinch Punch. The comedy collective utilise a loose structure which allows for spontaneous fun throughout the show whilst also securing a certain level of quality for each performance.
As detective for the night, Lottie Davies opens the show with skilful audience work which she executes with charm and wit. Davies establishes a comfortable atmosphere and eases viewers into the interactive format whilst also displaying quick-thinking comic ability. Unbeknownst to the audience, select words from these opening discussions will actually shape the story about to unfold.
The rest of the cast is then introduced one by one as their respective zany characters: Emma Lundegaard as an entitled aristocrat forced out of her family home, Eoin McAndrew as a commitment-phobic groom-to-be, Sam Martin as a severely indiscreet undercover spy; and David Fenne as a ludicrously silly Queen Victoria biographer named Vicky.
It isn’t long before the first big audience decision: the murder victim. Only after this point is the murderer discreetly assigned and throughout the ensuing rounds of interrogation viewers must gather information to make their final verdict.
As is to be expected with an improv show, the quality of the comedy and the slickness of narrative progression are in constant ebb and flow. That being said, the talented cast are adept at identifying the potential of each offering and shift their trajectory accordingly. This results in a solid hour of unpredictable, laugh-out-loud comedy and genuine intrigue surrounding which audacious alibis will actually hold up.
Locomotive For Murder: The Improvised Whodunnit, like its title, is a playful tongue-in-cheek experience and a clear crowd favourite. Any audience attending can confidently relax, or actively throw themselves, into the very capable hands of these accomplished improv performers.
Runs until 5 March 2023
The Reviews Hub Score
Laugh-out-loud
