“The Murder Room” is currently on at the New Farm Nash Theatre. This comedic farcical play is directed by Sharon White, known for her Agatha Christies productions. It was originally written in 1977 by Jack Sharkey, an American author who had over 80 plays published, a prolific catalogue of novels and articles appearing in Playboy.
Once again, the hard-working committee and members of Nash Theatre have presented us with a simple yet functional set, modestly decorated but with tricks that reveal as the play progresses. Sound effects are well used adding to the believability of a large home.
An array of costume changes for the ladies kept us guessing the era but did not distract. The gentleman gave a Great Gadsby vibe noting the smoking jacket, the knitted vest and the Bobby costume or maybe Doc Martin.
The cast all complemented each other in this farcical production that was filled with corny one-liners and comebacks. The over-the-top expressions and actions entertained the audience who rewarded the actors with constant laughter.
John Mann played two characters. Distinguishing between them with the help of a wig, a moustache and accent. Firstly, as the upper crust gentry Edgar Hollister newly married and gullible inventor to reappear as the bumbling slow-witted Bobby. Creating two funny and awkward characters.
Philippa White played Mavis Templeton. The conniving, manipulative Gold Digger. Who in the very opening scene gives the impression that she has killed her new husband, Edgar. From there we are led on a merry chase – of is he or isn’t he dead?
Philippa plays the part with great conviction, facial expressions and comedy.
The housekeeper, Lottie Malloy, played by Robyn Stumm was always chipping in, adding her two cents worth, whether it’s invited or not. The comical aspect of this was rather like a Laurel and Hardy or Charlie Chaplin character with noise.
Jonathan Knox came in as the inspector, but actually was the red herring. His tall physique and interrogational manner suited the role very well. Lulling us into a false belief of his involvement until the end. Again a talented actor with great stage presence.
When Edgar’s daughter Susan appears with her new fiancé, we are introduced to two more characters, adding further comedic opportunities. Madeline Scott played the rather ditsy, naive character, who innocently drops hints and clues as what was going to happen and how throughout the play. Her mimicking of Mavis’s facial expressions added to the comedy.
Drew Russell playing Barry Draper, had a great American accent to distant himself from suspicion as the newly engaged fiancé to Susan. A millionaire about to marry into the landed gentry. He was like a calming anchor for the play. Drew held this character together very well when all was going to pieces around him, playing the straight guy is a skill.
The play overall relied on quick comebacks with fast-paced banter. Which the cast mostly achieved. The choreography of the lights on, off scene was very well done.
The play went for two hours 10 minutes, including interval, and the church hall in New Farm is very handy to the city.
As usual the mature audience laughed and cackled, picking up on nuances that appealed to a certain era of entertainment. But speaking with audience members they very much enjoyed the comedic farce that was presented. Among the comments were ‘aren’t we lucky to have such affordable theatre, so close to us.’ And once again, community theatre is just that; affordable theatre right in your neighbourhood. So, make sure you get out and support them.
The play runs until the 29th of August. Tickets are through Trybooking .com
To book tickets to The Murder Room, please visit https://nashtheatre.com/play-3-2026/.
