The Giving Tree Theater in Marion will present “Dial M for Murder” from Oct. 9 to Oct. 25, featuring a 2021 adaptation by Jeffrey Hatcher. The production, directed by Scott Davidson, utilizes a five-person cast to stage the suspense thriller based on Frederick Knott’s 1952 play, as reported by The Gazette.
Davidson directs Hatcher’s version of the thriller
Director Scott Davidson chose Jeffrey Hatcher’s 2021 version of the script to provide the most current take on the story. While the production maintains the original 1950s London setting, Davidson noted that some characters differ from the original text. The plot centers on a husband and wife who grow suspicious of one another, resulting in a sequence of danger and murder.
Davidson, who also teaches social studies at Xavier Middle School’s LaSalle campus in Cedar Rapids, told The Gazette that the theater’s leadership, including managing partner Jamie Henley, selected the show to pivot from interactive murder mysteries to a traditional scripted mystery with multiple plot twists.
Cast and production challenges
The production features a small cast of five actors:
- Colin Battien as Tony
- Kelsey Black as Margot
- Belle Canney as Maxine
- Joshua Rouse as Lesgate
- Wes Kaufman as Inspector Hubbard
Davidson identified two primary hurdles during rehearsals. First, the actors had to master British accents to fit the London setting. Second, the director had to choreograph action scenes to ensure they appeared realistic to the audience without posing a physical danger to the performers on stage.
Evolution of Dial M for Murder
The production is based on the 1952 play by Frederick Knott. The story has seen several high-profile adaptations over the decades, including a 1954 film directed by Alfred Hitchcock and a 1998 movie titled “A Perfect Murder,” which starred Michael Douglas and Gwyneth Paltrow.
Shows run Oct. 9 through Oct. 25 in Marion
Performances run from Oct. 9 through Oct. 25. Shows are scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are priced at $30. The production takes place at the Giving Tree Theater, located at 752 10th St., Marion.
Common questions about the Giving Tree production
Does the audience participate in this show?
No. Unlike previous interactive murder mysteries hosted at the theater, Davidson stated this production is a traditional show where the audience watches the mystery unfold without participating.
Which version of the script is being used?
The theater is using the 2021 adaptation by Jeffrey Hatcher, which updates the original 1952 play by Frederick Knott while keeping the 1950s London setting.
Where can I find more information about tickets?
Additional details and ticket information are available at givingtreetheater.com.
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