This latest stage adaptation of a Peter James novel offers plenty of twists and turns in the art world.
How far would you be willing to own an expensive piece of artwork? This is the question that lies at the heart of Shaun McKenna’s adaptation of Peter James’s Picture You Dead – which has plenty of twists but could turn up the tension slightly more.
The show begins with couple Freya and Harry Kipling discovering that underneath a painting they have bought is another which could be by a famous artist – with a visit to The Antique’s Roadshow confirming this. But of course this knowledge being public means that more than one person is interested in it. This story is combined with Detective Superintendent Roy Grace re-opening a cold-case, which combined with a new murder and attempted burglary all links to one determined person…
Adapted for the stage by Shaun McKenna, it is easy to see why this Peter James novel is ripe for adaptation – with plenty of twists to keep the audience guessing as to how the story will conclude it is certainly an engaging watch. However, this being said it did feel as though some of the conversations between characters felt a bit stilted in the way that they were written that at times it felt slightly implausible and it seems to take a bit of time for the story to really develop in the way of tension – very deep into the first act in fact.
This being said, when it does get going there is plenty to keep the audience guessing – particularly in terms of who in fact has the original masterpiece painting – with some nice surprises that are too good to share here and ensures that you don’t see the ending coming. It is definitely a show that keeps the audience increasingly on their toes.
Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, the production has intimate and focused atmosphere to it that ensures that your focus is completely on the characters, leaving you wondering what is going to happen next. This sense of uncertainty is enhanced perfectly by Jason Taylor’s chilly lighting design and Max Pappenheim’s music that is particularly effective during the second act.
Praise should also be given to the ambitiousness of Adrian Linford’s set design which is comprised of an art studio, the Kipling’s house and a room at a country house that shows the transition of locations with ease. However, it does have to be said the moments at the police station could have been highlighted better as these scenes feel a little detached from the rest.
There are also strong performances from the cast. In particular from Jodie Steele as the conniving and vicious Roberta Kilgore – really showcasing the character’s mettle. She is able to adapt to the changing tone of scenes effortlessly and is compelling to watch. Peter Ash offers a cheeky playfulness to the criminal trying to go straight artist who finds himself inadvertently being caught up in proceedings, while the banter of Fiona Wade as Freya and Ben Cutler as Harry is really endearing to witness.
While there are flaws with this stage adaptation of Picture You Dead, for those who love a murder mystery that keeps you guessing right to the last second this will be definitely right up your street!
By Emma Clarendon
Picture You Dead continues to run at the New Victoria Theatre until the 22nd February before continuing on its UK tour.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️