Dial M For Murder, Gala Theatre, Durham: IS there such a thing as the perfect murder? Frederick Knott's classic 1950s thriller explores the concept, in an exhilarating play performed admirably by The Middle Ground Theatre Company.

Although set in the Fifties, this is a timeless piece which should appeal to all generations. There is more than a smattering of heavy comical moments and director Michael Lunney steals the show as Inspector Hubbard. He solves the mystery with the aid of Max Halliday (Richard Grieve) the young writer whose seduction of Sheila Wendice (Joy Brook) leads to the murder in question. The culprit Tony Wendice (Steven Pinder) has no scruples about planning the (almost) perfect murder of his wife.

A play to keep you guessing, which leaves the audience eager for more. Hitchcock himself would have been proud of this modern adaptation.

* Until Saturday, 7.30pm start with Saturday matinee. Box office 0191-332 4041.

Published: 25/11/2004