Bought to the stage following the success of previous adaptations The Perfect Murder and Dead Simple is Looking Good Dead by Peter James, adapted by award-winning writer Shaun McKenna.

The set is smartly used with the use of a backlit gauze providing maximum use of the stage at Cambridge Arts Theatre. Utilising this for the sinister moments allows the rest of the stage to be in darkness providing further atmosphere. The rest of the set is a simple yet effective home with a moveable police station which serves its purpose.

The play in general, feels like a simplified version of James’ novel. Whilst condensing it for stage, it has made much of the plot quite predictable, though one twist for those non-familiar with the book does remain. Fans of the series should be warned that Roy Grace becomes a side character in the play, with the Bryce family featuring as the main characters.

Playing the famous detective Grace is Harry Long, who delivers a sincere version of the character, accompanied by Leon Stewart and Gemma Stroyan as Branson and Bella respectively, who are quite the team. Whilst perhaps more light-hearted than James’ writing intended them to be, they run with it and have excellent chemistry.

The baddies, who we won’t name for spoilers’ sake, do a great job accompanied by the sound design of Max Pappenheim. They manage to be menacing, and bring edge and suspense to scenes which occasionally feel a little rushed. 

Playing the Bryce family who have found themselves swept up in deadly danger are Adam Woodyatt as head of the family Tom Bryce, Laurie Brett as free spending wife Kelly and Luke Ward-Wilkinson as son Max. 

The chemistry between Woodyatt and Brett is undeniable and they feel like a pair of comfy old slippers in their portrayal of husband and wife once more, with similar issues to those that you might find on Eastenders! With Woodyatt having played the character of Ian Beale for over 30 years, it is difficult to see him as anyone else, especially in a character that is cut from a similar cloth. However, Woodyatt does manage to convince you that he is in fact Tom Bryce as the show progresses, which shows how good an actor he is and worthy of the leading role. 

The scene stealer of the piece is Ward-Wilkinson as Max. At the age of 28, playing a 17 year-old is an interesting casting choice. However, at no point do you think that he is older than that and he gives a very convincing performance. His mood swings are spot on for a teenager, with his general mannerisms including slouching and tutting. 

The character of Max perhaps goes on the biggest emotional journey throughout the piece and he really excels in these scenes, as he is able to flex his acting muscles.

As a whole, the piece is enjoyable but not quite as thrilling as it perhaps could be. The actors all excel in their roles but in the process of page to stage, something has been lost in translation.

*** Three stars

Reviewed by: Emma Rooney

Looking Good Dead plays at Cambridge Arts Theatre until 5 February before continuing its UK tour. Tickets for select venues are available here.