"Cluedo" has brought the classic board game to life in a delightful way. Based on the beloved 1985 film Clue and inspired by the original game, the play cleverly combines elements of mystery and farce, making for an entertaining and nostalgic night out. Directed by Mark Bell and written by Sandy Rustin, this production blends slapstick humour with a vintage whodunit, offering a light-hearted experience that fans of the game and film will appreciate.
The plot stays true to its roots, beginning on a dark and stormy night in a grand country estate where six guests, each with something to hide, are invited by the enigmatic Mr. Boddy. The evening quickly turns sinister as blackmail, murder, and chaos ensue. The narrative weaves through familiar tropes of the genre, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the audience guessing, all while maintaining a humorous tone that never takes itself too seriously.
David Farley’s set design is a standout, ingeniously transforming the stage into a sprawling mansion with rooms that open up in unexpected ways, giving the audience a real sense of the scale and mystery of Boddy Manor. The lighting by Warren Letton perfectly complements the set, with well-timed flashes of lightning and ominous shadows adding to the eerie atmosphere. The costumes, also designed by Farley, beautifully capture the late-1940s era, enhancing the characters' personalities and grounding the story in its time period.
The cast delivers strong performances, with each actor bringing their own unique flair to their roles. Jean-Luke Worrell, as the butler Wadsworth, is the undeniable star of the show. His physical comedy and expressive mannerisms keep the energy high and the audience engaged. Michelle Collins as Miss Scarlett and Daniel Casey as Professor Plum bring charisma and wit to their characters, while Tom Babbage's portrayal of Reverend Green adds a layer of slapstick humour that is both endearing and hilarious. The entire ensemble works together seamlessly, creating a dynamic and entertaining group of suspects.
Overall, "Cluedo" at The Lowry is a thoroughly enjoyable production that combines mystery, humour, and nostalgia. While the first act may feel a bit slow at times, the second half more than makes up for it with inventive scenes and memorable performances. Fans of the original game and film will find much to love, and even those new to the world of Cluedo will appreciate the clever set design and strong ensemble cast. It's a light-hearted theatrical experience that’s well worth the watch.
Cluedo is on at The Lowry until Saturday 2nd July 2022, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show and see where it will be touring to please click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Craig Sugden
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.
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