Deathtrap

There is a good reason why Ira Levin’s Deathtrap is the longest running thriller on Broadway - it’s a cracker of a story within a story that hinges on the element of surprise, therefore I will avoid giving away the plot.

But even if you have seen it before or are a fan of the brilliant film starring Michael Caine and Christopher Reeve you will not be disappointed by Darlinghurst Theatre’s rendition of this classic tale.

Director Jo Turner along with set designer Michael Rankin create a detailed and believable world which allows the story to unfold. Andrew McFarlane’s portrayal of playwright Sidney Bruhl is a fine mix of narcissism and bears all the hallmarks of a man trying to hold on to his days of glory while trying to placate his neurotic wife Myra, which is well played by Sophie Gregg. Timothy Dashwood as the wannabe playwright Clifford Anderson is a likeable innocent fellow with an underlying conniving and manipulative nature. Rounding out the cast of five are Drew Fairley as Bruhl’s friend and lawyer and Georgina Symes as the neighbourhood psychic Helga Ten Dorp both whom provide ample doses of comedy.

Darlinghurst Theatre’s Deathtrap is a rollicking good time, full of twists and turns. It’s an edge of the seat whodunnit and you won’t want to miss it!

Whitney Fitzsimmons

Image: Timothy Dashwood, and Andrew McFarlane (c) Helen White