They're Killing it at The Tabard Theatre

Nick Hennegan is impressed with The Business of Murder

Miles Gallant, Charlotte Hunter and Gary Webster
Miles Gallant, Charlotte Hunter and Gary Webster

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November 2, 2024

They’re killing it at the Tabard Theatre - and it’s easy to see why with this latest offering from writing legend Richard Harris.

I’m personally not a great fan of murder mysteries. I’ve had numerous friends perform in Agatha Christie’s ‘The Mouse Trap’ in the West End - and I’ve still never seen it. But this offering is more than a simple whodunnit. Because for most of the play you are not sure what’s been dun! Unlike most in this genre, it cleverly does NOT start with a murder we have to solve. But a series of events set in a first floor flat in London sometime in the early 1980’s. With three apparently unconnected strangers. But we find out, as things develop, they are all involved in The Business of Murder! Writer Richard describes the piece as a “WhyDunnit rather than a WhoDunnit…” and he’s right!

It’s a clever thriller dripping in quality. I had no previous knowledge of the play, but once again the tiny Theatre At The Tabard is punching above its weight. The set looks more West End than Fringe! As do the technical effects. And the cast, award-winning professionals, are all perfect too. From (ex-Minder) Garry Webster’s, seen-it-all copper, Hallet, through Charlotte Hunter’s creative and alluringly prim writer, Dee, through to Miles Gallant’s pedantic but charming flat owner, Stone, none of them put a creative foot wrong and give complete, solid performances.

And Nick Bromley’s direction is assured and detailed too. From little touches like the fourth wall mirror, to Stone’s constant buttoning and unbuttoning his jacket, Bromley ensures the pace never falters and we are drawn into their world.

If there’s a slight niggle, the second act felt a little bit overlong, but it’s just a niggle. This is theatre of the highest quality in all its elements. I can completely see why Richard Harris and The Business of Murder ran for years in the West End.

Kill for a ticket! You know it makes good Business sense!

Nick Hennegan

The Business of Murder continues until 23 November.

Standard price tickets cost £23.50/£19.50 concessions. Final 2 weeks £25.50/£21.50 concessions. Running Time Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, including a 15 minute interval.

Coming up at the Tabard

Theatre at the Tabard is at 2 Bath Road, Chiswick (W4 1LW).

 

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