Much like the film, and boardgame before that, in this theatre adaptation written by Sandy Rustin, the classic Cluedo characters Colonel Mustard, Mrs Peacock, Mrs White, Miss Scarlett, Reverend Green, and Professor Plum, meet for a seemingly innocuous dinner party at Boddy Manor, until the secrets come spilling out, and so does the blood.
Every cast member pulls their weight on the comedy front, from Michelle Collins as a seductive Miss Scarlett, to understudy Georgina Bradley as the inconsistently french maid Yvette.
As expected from a production directed by Mark Bell, of the Play That Goes Wrong fame, physical comedy plays a large part, especially with Reverend Green’s endless mishaps (played by Tom Babbage).
Star of the show is undoubtedly Jean-Luke Worrell as flamboyant butler Wadsworth. His every movement is carefully considered for ultimate dramatic effect and his dizzying monologue in the second act is breathtaking.
Just as carefully considered is the set designed by David Farley. What initially looks rather plain with oversized doors lining the three walls is cleverly opened up to reveal various rooms, answering the eternal question of how to condense a mansion onto a stage. The open space allows for Anna Healey’s precise choreography to shine as the cast chaotically manoeuvres themselves and various props in an absurdly graceful manner.
All elements of the production are executed brilliantly in this whodunnit tribute. To find out if it really was Professor Plum, in the library, with the lead pipe, buy tickets here.
Cluedo is showing at The Belgrade until 19th March 2022.
*****
Katie Reviews 