Fringe review: SOLVE ALONG A MURDER SHE WROTE, theSpace @ Symposium Hall

Solve Along A Murder She Wrote is exactly the type of quirky, engaging experience you'd expect to find at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. The concept is straightforward yet brilliantly entertaining: you watch an episode of Murder She Wrote, and with the help of clues and fun set pieces, you try to solve the murder mystery before the iconic Jessica Fletcher does.

Writer and director Tim Benzie is clearly a die-hard fan of Murder She Wrote, and his enthusiasm is infectious. From re-enacting the show's opening sequence to donning multiple costumes and digging up vintage TV ads from the era of the episode's original airing, Benzie’s passion shines through. His love for the series is evident in every detail, and it adds a layer of warmth and authenticity to the show.

In this performance, the audience watches the episode ‘Paint Me a Murder’. Benzie does an excellent job of catching everyone up on the story, making it accessible even to those who aren't familiar with Murder She Wrote. However, if you're not a fan, you might miss out on some of the inside jokes and older references, such as cataloging 1970s actors on the "Fameometer." These nostalgic nods are a treat for fans but could fly over the heads of those less acquainted with the show.

The blend of multimedia and live theatre in this show creates an experience akin to the infamous "react" videos on YouTube, where Benzie's comical commentary adds a hilarious layer to the viewing experience. The audience is encouraged to participate by raising and shaking paddles whenever they spot something suspicious, which happens frequently and keeps everyone engaged.

Solve Along A Murder She Wrote feels like watching a beloved comfort show with a friend who's not only an enthusiast but also brilliantly funny. While the experience leans heavily on the audience's affection for Jessica Fletcher and the original series, it's a clever and nostalgic treat that blends interactive theatre with the joy of a classic whodunnit.

For fans of the show, it’s an absolute must-see; for everyone else, it’s a charming introduction to a world that’s part mystery, part nostalgia, and all fun.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Beatriz Do O

Solve Along a Murder She Wrote plays at theSpace @ Symposium Hall until 24 Aug, with further info here.