Interview: Writer and actor Phil Mealey on MAKING A MURDERER: THE MUSICAL

Based on the real case and true events of Steven Avery, which inspired by the award-winning Netflix true crime documentary series and global phenomenon, Making a Murderer: The Musical will make its world premiere at the Edinburgh Fringe this summer. We spoke to BAFTA-winning comedy writer Phil Mealey who also stars in the show.

For anyone that hasn’t seen the Netflix documentary, how would you describe the story behind Making a Murderer? 

The great thing about the stage musical is that you don’t have to have seen the documentary because the story is explained in the musical. When working on the show, I wanted to make sure that we explored the events of Steven’s life whilst discovering the impact on those around him.

It’s not your typical storyline, so what made you decide to write this as a musical and not as a play?

Drama has the ability to tackle sensitive, real-life subjects and, in our case, consider the impact of crime on the victims and their families, but music serves as a powerful cue to emotions, memories and feelings that cannot be communicated through words alone.

The production supports ‘The Innocence Project’, which is a non-profit organisation. Why did you feel it was important to associate the production with this group?

We are proud supporters of ‘The Innocence Project’ who work to free the innocent, prevent wrongful convictions, and create fair, compassionate and equitable systems of justice for everyone. They also support freed people, their friends, and families as they navigate the transition back into an ever-changing world. We felt that it was incredibly important to support the work that this wonderful company does. 

What can audiences expect from the show? 

Well, it’s not 42nd Street! I think people will be curious to see how we have put it together; it’s entertaining throughout, it’s funny, it’s sad and I couldn’t be more pleased with the production. It parodies and highlights the flaws in the justice system whilst also being compassionate to the real-life victims and respects the truth.  

What are you looking forward to most about taking Making A Murderer: The Musical to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival?

As a new musical making its world premiere at Edinburgh, we are excited to experience the live audience reaction. Actors will talk about "feeding off of" an audience's energy, Ultimately, the performers are driven by the sense of presence of the audience.

Making a Murderer: The Musical will play at the Cowbarn at Underbelly’s Bristo Square from 3-29 August.