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Cluedo is the childhood whodunit boardgame we all remember and it’s been transformed into a living, breathing comedy play!
This Agatha Christie inspired game turned family fun into a night of deadly deductions as you tried to discover the murderer, weapon and location of death. Invented by crime obsessive, Anthony Pratt, in the 1940s, Cluedo became killer entertainment and the most successful board game of all time.
Don’t forget to read my review of The Play That Goes Wrong – another hilarious play set in a manor
The perilous plot
The scene is set as each character makes their entrance to the old manor house, from a spirited Colonel Mustard and quirky Professor Plum to a racy Miss Scarlett and astute Mrs White. All with something in common. Not just an invite to the dinner party under guises, but dark secrets that may soon be deduced. Before you know it, multiple deaths occur and the game is afoot.
A bloody great show
From the study to the billiard room, I really enjoyed the swift movements through crafty doors that opened to reveal partial rooms. And in further, crucial, nods to the boardgame, the infamous weapons, such as the dagger and candlestick, are introduced to the guests wrapped in gift boxes. Presents that turn out to be murderous fun.
Slapstick, tongue in cheek humour is rife. I didn’t expect to laugh quite so much! The witty writing, strange lighting and weird soundtrack really do create a creepy comedy world that draws you in.
And the cast totally get the vibe of this stage play. In particular, Wadsworth (Jean-Luke Worrell) is a super star as the butler with his suspicious, haunting movements and strange rhythms. He makes you feel uneasy and sets the tone perfectly.
Mrs Peacock (Judith Amsenga) absolutely nails the caricature of a politicians wife with her hunched back and bullish personality.
Reverand Green (Tom Babbage) is a dark horse and a special mention to Harry Bradley who plays a whole host of hilarious ensemble characters.
Cluedo is a riot! It’s a bloody great show that will make your belly hurt with laughter and your brain hurt with accusations.
Playing at The Lowry until Saturday 2 July 2022.