Murder on the Pacific Diamond

This dynamic performance is a testament to the allure and power of improvised theatre. Willis and Balloch play Detectives Conway and Smitherson, who set out to help the audience uncover the mystery behind the murder of Dame Elizabeth Heinrich. The crime occurs aboard the luxury cruise liner, The Pacific Diamond. With the aid of only a few sound and lighting effects, and almost no props, Willis and Balloch are able to evoke the setting with ease and panache.

All the characters, including the murder victim, are played by the duo and each character is delineated with impeccable detail. The manner in which the performers inhabit the roles and switch between them is impressive, frequently hilarious and simply enjoyable to watch. While it is difficult to say which of the couples suspected of committing the murder had any real motive for eliminating the Dame, it is very amusing to watch them being reincarnated as part of the investigation.

Willis and Balloch always retain a healthy tongue-in-cheek approach to the performance, and they are always completely relaxed and at home on the stage. One of the highlights of the play is the opportunity for the audience to interrogate the characters. Here The Sparrow Men demonstrate their total command of improvisation skills and exhibit a thoroughly entertaining combination of raw talent and rigorous training.

Patricia Di Risio