The Hitchcock classic Dial ‘M’ for Murder is a dark tale of betrayal, manipulation and murder claustrophobically set in one room. The theatrical version opened at the Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre on Jan. 13, 2025. The noir tale follows Tony Wendice (Dan Domingues), a former tennis pro with a sinister plan to dispatch his wealthy wife—Margot (Awesta Zarif)—and inherit her fortune. After learning of his wife’s affair with his friend Maxine Hadley (Lucy Lavely), Wendice hires an old college friend—Captain Lesgate Swan (Aaron Cammack)—to be his assassin. And of course, things don’t go exactly as planned. What follows is a tangled web of deceit, twists and a deft game of cat and mouse among Tony, Margot and an ever-curious police inspector (Peter Howard) determined to uncover the truth.
The set design, conceived by James Noone, is a standout element. The entire show takes place in one room, a daunting challenge for any production, yet this space is anything but static. Surrounded by an innovative glass structure, the is itself a character that can expand and contract to be both confining and expansive as the story unfolds. The glass panels—which under certain lighting cues appear to double as reflective metal—are a clever metaphor for the characters’ lack of transparency. Secrets bounce around the room just as light does, creating a visual representation of the play’s central theme: nothing is as it seems. Director Michael John Garces skillfully utilizes every inch of this dynamic space.
Because of this over-the-top interplay with the set the lighting design is a much a factor here as the set design and Tom Ontiveros’ work here is nothing short of masterful. The lighting not only enhances the mood but also aids in storytelling, shifting seamlessly between moments of levity and high-stakes drama. From the very first scene, the vibrant and period-accurate attire designed by Patrick Holt catches the eye and immediately sets the tone. Each character’s wardrobe not only reflects the 1950s era but also provides subtle hints about their personalities. (Costumes were a huge highlight in this production.)
Character choices throughout the production are sharp and deliberate, adding layers of foreshadowing that pay off beautifully. Every movement and glance seems loaded with meaning, creating an intricate dance of suspicion and revelation. The actors’ commitment to pantomime—acting without dialogue—adds a layer of depth. These moments, often quiet and understated, are as riveting as the play’s more dramatic exchanges.
Dial ‘M’ for Murder is a testament to the power of collaboration in theater. From the innovative set to the evocative lighting to the nuanced performances, every element works in harmony to create an unforgettable experience. It’s a show that proves murder mysteries aren’t just about whodunit—they’re about the thrill of watching secrets unravel one well-dressed layer at a time.
WHAT: Pioneer Theatre Company’s Dial ‘M’ For Murder
WHEN: January 10-25, 2025
WHERE: Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre
TICKETS AND INFO: pioneertheatre.org
