Who Dun Nit ?

An invitation to solve a murder mystery is reason for seeing Who Dun Nit ? produced by the Hobart Repertory Theatre Society. Anthony Shaffer has exploited the comedy thriller genre, including every cliché an audience may expect, then some more. Director Roger Chevalier, himself a veteran actor, understands the value of timing, and tried to develop and maintain the balance between fast paced, snappy delivery of clever dialogue, while allowing the cast to exploit their characters. In some cases diction suffered and quick wit was occasionally lost in some mumbled delivery. This didn’t bother the audience, who “got it”, rewarding the cast with enthusiastic laughter.

One of the tricks of the plot was the use of changes of accent and character by all but one of the ten characters: a difficult trick to pull off, but well managed. The drawback and the beauty of ensemble acting is the range of experience of the actors. Hobart Repertory Theatre draws upon its talented experienced actors who nurture and develop newcomers. This creates a strong overall impression of competence, even while newcomers are finding their feet. Katherine Noonan (Lady Tremurrain) was a perfect example of over-the-topness. Scott Hunt (Inspector Bowden) revelled in his role, involving the audience as crime-solving co-conspirators. As usual, sets and costumes were fabulous. Who Dun Nit ? is a hoot.

Merlene Abbott

Photographer: John King Smith

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