Review: DIAL M FOR MURDER at Desert TheatreWorks

It’s Halloween time again and what better way to get in the spookiest of vibes than seeing a good murder mystery, right? Desert Theatreworks in Indio has just the potion for you with their current production of "Dial M for Murder".  Now, the show isn’t so much a murder mystery in its truest sense, but a nail-biting thriller. I say that because there isn’t much of a mystery surrounding the murder itself. The audience sees everything play out in real time. The suspense comes not from guessing whodunnit, but from wondering how everything will play out and whether the characters will escape the web of deceit.  The tension builds as audiences watch the meticulous plan unfold and anticipate the potential fallout, only to be slingshot another direction. Thrillers are fascinating in the way they can keep us on the edge of our seats in such a different way than murder mysteries do!

This adaptation of Frederick Knott’s original play by Jeffrey Hatcher results in a modernization of "Dial M for Murder" while keeping it in the 1950s, adding layers to the characters and their motivations. In one such change, Hatcher made the heroine’s affair to be with another woman, allowing him to not only highlight the societal taboos of that era but also deepens the emotional stakes of the narrative. It transforms the story into a more complex exploration of love, betrayal, and ambition. The dynamic between the characters, especially with Mr. Wendice representing his wife’s lover professionally as a literary agent, creates an intriguing tension that wouldn’t have been present in the original. This kind of adaptation allows the story to resonate with contemporary audiences while still honoring the source material. It’s always exciting to see how classic plays can be reinterpreted to reflect current issues and sensibilities!  Production Director and DTW’s Artistic Director Lance Phillips kept the action fluid and the pace brisk.  There were wonderful Hitchcockian touches, such as the suspended ceiling lamp that was just in reach for the antagonist to bat away, so it threw light in violent strokes forward and backward behind our intended victim, in true 1940’s film noir fashion.

Phylicia Mason’s portrayal of Margot Wendice brought a captivating elegance to the stage, especially with that Chanel-inspired wardrobe adding to her character's sophistication. The imagery alone sets a powerful tone. Ms. Mason’s take on Margot was chic yet naïve, rather a cool cat in that den of hungry lions.  Never falling to cliché, Ms. Mason was a heroine to root for even (or especially) when the chips are down.

Angela Landis as Maxine Hadley was a great counterpart, bringing both strength and intellect to the role. The dynamic between the two women, especially given the unspoken yet all too obvious complexity of their relationship added depth to the unfolding drama. It is probable that Maxine’s background as a writer gives her a unique perspective on unveiling events, allowing her to approach the danger with a mix of insight and caution. Their interactions are an engaging blend of tension and chemistry, amping up angst and tension.

James Flaherty's portrayal of Tony Wendice, with his nuanced display of manipulation and hidden motivation was compelling. The internal conflict he embodies adds to the suspense, making the audience question just how far he’ll go to maintain his façade. Jim Rogers as Lesgate was a perfect foil, adding an unpredictable element to the mix with his self-serving nature and mistakes. That kind of character can really heighten the stakes and tension, especially when plans start to unravel.

Shel Safir as Inspector Hubbard adds another layer of intrigue, especially with his sneaky investigative approach. He brought a cleverness to the role that would keep both the characters and the audience on their toes. With such a well-rounded and talented cast, the dynamics created a thrilling atmosphere, making the unfolding drama even more captivating!

Jeffrey Hatcher’s adaptation, paired with Tesla Roos’ meticulous set design, really transports the audience to a glamorous 1950s London. The attention to detail in the set enhances the story's tension and stakes, especially when the environment plays such a crucial role in the characters' interactions. Hayden James’ costume designs were equally impressive, with the elegant dresses and suits perfectly reflecting the era and adding to the characters' identities.

Gus Vivian’s lighting design is essential for setting the mood, and it contributed to the overall atmosphere. Geo Medina’s sound design and music tied everything together beautifully, creating an immersive experience that complements the drama on stage. With such thoughtful design elements and a talented cast, this adaptation of "Dial M for Murder" is a truly captivating theatrical experience!

“Dial M for Murder” is running Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; and Sundays at 2:00 p.m through Sunday, October 20, 2024. Tickets can be purchased at www.dtworks.org or by calling (760) 980-1455. The production plays at the Indio Performing Arts Center, 45175 Fargo Street, Indio.

Coming up in DTW’s 2024-25 season:

The Wild Women of Winedale (October 18- November 3, 2024) Enter the realm of this contemporary comedy where three women navigate life's twists and turns. Meet the spirited sisters, Fanny and Willa, along with their delightfully eccentric sister-in-law, Johnnie Faye. Through laughter and tears, they've weathered life's storms, from losing spouses to the unexpected sinkhole swallowing their home in Florida. Join these remarkable women as they tackle life's clutter with wit and ingenuity, promising an uproarious journey filled with laughter and heart. Don't miss out on the hilarity!

Rating: PG for mild language and adult humor.

Jersey Boys (November 9 - December 1, 2024) Experience Desert Theatreworks' electrifying production of "Jersey Boys: The Musical" on the DTW Mainstage! With innovative staging and dynamic performances, this fresh take on the classic tale of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons promises an unforgettable night of rock 'n' roll and nostalgia. Get ready to sing along to hits like "Sherry" and "Can't Take My Eyes Off You" in a show you won't want to miss. Join us as we journey from the gritty streets of New Jersey to the heights of musical stardom, celebrating friendship, loyalty, and the power of dreams. Don't miss your chance to witness this iconic story reimagined with passion, energy, and pure entertainment!

Rating: PG-13 for strong language and adult themes.

Nuncrackers (December 6 - 29, 2024) DTW's annual Christmas production is back, and this time it's the uproarious Nuncrackers: The Nunsense Christmas Musical." Join the zany sisters of Nunsense as they spread holiday cheer, yuletide laughs, and a dash of festive mischief. Broadcasting live from the basement of Mount Saint Helen’s Convent, the sisters take to the airwaves for a cable access Christmas special like no other. With (mostly) traditional holiday songs such as "Here We Come-a-Waffle-ing" and "We Three Kings of Orient Are Us," a hilarious secret Santa contest, a quirky rendition of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Ballet, and plenty of laughs courtesy of the Little Sisters of Hoboken, this show promises non-stop entertainment. Will they manage to get their act together? Join us for an evening of laughter and find out, as you'll be chuckling your way through the holidays and into the New Year with "Nuncrackers"!

Rating: PG – for mild adult humor

(At Margaritaville Resort Palm Springs) Christmas With The Crawfords (December 13 -29, 2024) Step into a Hollywood holiday hootenanny presented with a new vaudeville-esque twist! DTW SIGNATURE SHOWS presents the revamped and rambunctious Christmas With The Crawfords. Imagine it’s Christmas Eve, 1949, at the Crawford family’s opulent Brentwood mansion, where a musical parody and high-kicking salute to Hollywood's Golden Age unfolds. Silver screen legends like Judy Garland, Carmen Miranda, Gloria Swanson, and the Andrews Sisters take the stage in a tinsel-tangled tribute that's as fresh as new-fallen snow. Forget the usual holiday fare; this festive frolic is the perfect antidote, leaving you with a spring in your step and a thankful heart for the family you’ve got. Join us for a night where Hollywood’s heyday meets holiday camp in a spectacle that sparkles brighter than the star on top of the tree!

Rating: PG-13 (For adult language and adult themes)

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