Based on the hit Netflix series, ‘Making A Murderer: The Musical’ tells story of a man and his family’s fight for freedom that has enthralled people all over the world and has helped shine a light on the injustices and failings of a broken system. This production runs at Underbelly Bistro Square till 29th August (except 15th Aug).
Amanda Beveridge is heart-breaking as Ma Avery. Amanda portrays several characters in this production however her portrayal of Ma is simply stunning. The audience instantly resonates with the proud matriarch who puts family before herself. The beauty in Ma’s relationship with Steven is thanks to the positivity and determination that radiates from Amanda. This is a lovely performance that brings audiences a further insight into the woman we have come to know from infamous the docuseries.
Matt Bond perfectly portrays Steven Avery; the nervous disposition and determination is presented so solemnly. Physically Matt has also transformed himself into Avery, he looks identical to the accused American. Vocally there is such power in Matt’s performance, the emotion is so profound and you see clearly the struggles that Avery himself internalizes, making his situation impact the audience so much more than in the documentary. This is an impressive performance from Bond.
Dean Makowski-Clayton gives a tragic portrayal of Brendan Dassey. The catatonically nervous teen is portrayed which such naturalism and devastating emotion from Dean. A highlight is the gut-wrenching solo after Brendan’s interrogation, it is hard to watch this young man be used so horrifically by the justice system.
Nicky Filshie presents Kathleen Zellner as the hero that the audience can’t help but root for. Kathleen doesn’t enter until the latter half of the musical, however, within that time Nicky makes a strong impression. She shows Kathleen’s humanity and empathy for Steven and her passion to resolve his and Brendan’s case. Nicky drives the narrative which focuses on the cease of injustice for the Avery family and others like them, this is an endearing performance to watch.
Phil Mealey is hilarious as Ken Kratz, he embraces the satire and tears into the toxic persona of the lawyer. The camp and cabaret-esque entrance leaves the audience in stitches, this is a fantastic spoof of the much hated and corrupt district attorney.
This production features a superb ensemble that take on several different characters and help build the Manitowoc community on stage. The ensemble are as follows; Michael Blair, Emma Norman (Betsy), Jennifer McKinnon-Magee (Pammy) and Lewis Winter Petrie.
Phil Mealey’s script for this production does an excellent job of delivering the perfect balance of satire while also capturing the emotion and injustice of Avery and Dassey’s story. The music in this production is sublime, it delivers comedy, emotion and everything in between. Rob Owen’s musical direction gives it a West End standard, even with a stripped-back band, the music still makes a firm impact. Christian Durham embraces the style of this text and lifts the satire, with this each character is delivered so truly to who they are based on, with slight elevation for clear entertainment reasons. With this Kate Salmon supplies some minimalist choreography to help lift the energy in the numbers, she does well to utilse the space she is given.
‘Making A Murderer: The Musical’ is a superb production that captures the true story that gripped the world in such a creative and empowering way. The justice system is scrutinized in many productions this Fringe, however, none do it in such an engaging and entertaining manner.
Click the link below to get tickets for ‘Making A Murderer: The Musical’:
https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/making-a-murderer-the-musical
Theatre Scotland 
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