‘Murder She Didn’t Write’ from Bristol-based Degrees of Error is a brilliantly inventive and very funny take on the traditional murder mystery.
This was my first experience of improv, but the concept was wonderfully simple: the audience shouts out suggestions and the cast has to create the story, characters and clues on the spot.
Last night, the setting was heart surgery and the murder weapon was a plastic banana – despite the story taking place way before plastic was invented. It was just one of many wonderfully ridiculous moments that developed throughout the evening.
The cast are excellent, completely committed to whatever twists and turns come their way, while keeping the increasingly crazy plot moving. The improvisation was also skill-fully created by live music, sound effects and lighting, adding another layer of unpredictability.
There is plenty of audience participation, but it never feels uncomfortable or overdone. I was slightly nervous I might be asked to do something but it would have been fine if so.
The colourful costumes give the production a Cluedo-like feel and make it easy to follow the characters as the mystery unfolds.
For fans of Agatha Christie and murder mysteries, there is plenty to enjoy here, but you certainly don’t need to be a Crime fan to appreciate the comedy.
Clever, chaotic and very entertaining, Murder She Didn’t Write is an impressive demonstration of just how much can be created when a cast is given no idea about what is coming next.
