Muted as a classic of the thriller genre of plays, Anthony Shaffer’s Sleuth is set against the backdrop of a 1970’s lavish Wiltshire manor and follows a cat and mouse game of gamesmanship between writer Andrew Wyke and his wife’s younger love Milo Tindle, which involves burglary, insurance fraud and the ultimate revenge.

Todd Boyce who plays Andrew Wyke is insatiable to watch from beginning to end, he is captivating and commands the stage in his performance. Effortlessly portraying the cunning and arrogance of the character and draws the audience in with his deception. His opposite number Neil McDermott plays Milo Tindle, the charming and ambitious travel agent who is brazen to admit he is wanting to marry Wyke’s wife. McDermott’s portrayal perfectly complements Boyce’s and the scenes between the two crackle with tension and excitement. The performance of the dialogue is fast paced and fizzes with wit and keeps the audiences wanting more and more, following every twist and turn of the plot with awe.

Directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, the set and atmospheric lighting are minimalist enough to provide a simple background but, help to build tension within the piece. The use of the stairs and direction show the power struggles between the pair at different points, none more so than the end of the first half. Kavanaugh’s direction uses every inch of the stage and uses the physicality of the actors to build the tension between the two in this thrilling piece.

The plot though intricate, is fast paced and easy to follow but never fails to keep the audience guessing with every twist and turn. It is a must see for those who enjoy the murder-mystery genre.

**** Four Stars

Reviewed by Emma Rooney

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