Degrees of Error, provide a wonderful improvised comedy in the style of a 1920’s murder mystery. ‘Murder She Didn’t Write’ puts the audience at the centre of the action as the cast brilliantly orchestrate a brutal murder in the Cluedo game style. A different murder for every show at the Pleasance Beyond- Pleasance Courtyard from the 17th-29th August.
Lizzy Skrzypiec as Detective Agatha Crispy, excellently moderates the chaos happening on stage with her trusted accomplice Jerkins (a randomly selected audience member). On this occasion, Jerkins has to remind the world renowned detective Agatha Crispy of the time she solved a murder at a DFS (Dorchester Furniture Store) Sale, where a nasty bid for the last remaining sofa sets the scene for a gruesome crime. Interjecting with comedic suggestions throughout for fellow cast, Skrzypiec’s brilliance stems from her playfully strategic character in developing a clear narrative for the bonkers murder that takes place on stage. Caitlin Campbell as Miss Scarlett was great at being receptive to comedic suggestions finding the balance between the silliness of improve but also relating the absurdity to the facts surrounding each character. Stephen Clements as explorer extraudinare Mr. Orange is a fun role as one of the more wilder suspects of the crime. Clements is able to get lost in the physicality of the role, which provides a great source of entertainment for the audience. Rachel Proctor-Lane as the stupendous Miss Gold gave an excellent performance. Full of quick wit, devilish charm and extravagant lifestyle, Proctor-Lane produces a wonderful and warm energy on stage that makes her captivating to watch. Tom Wilkinson and Matthew Whittle as Mr. Blue and Mr Green both give wonderful supportive roles in the production. Wilkinson’s naïve and sweet natured Mr Blue is soon to be discovered much more capable than first thought. Whittle as Mr Green gives a strong comedic role as the newly deceased victim portraying Mr Green in a series of hilarious incriminating flashbacks that take place prior to being stuffed like a sofa with a penguin shaped sponge. As an ensemble the cast work incredibly effectively in supporting one another and creating an engaging, fast paced and funny experience for audiences.
Lizzy Skrzypiec direction has provided an exciting platform to curate an interactive murder mystery board game, cleverly using the skill of improvisation as a tool to keep the game new and playful for every performance. This show becomes a love letter, exemplifying the stereotypes people have come to love from this genre. Musical Director and Pianist Sarah Garrard underscores this show to perfection. Garrard’s live playing immersed audiences, adding another layer to the interactive experience.
Degrees of Error’s ‘Murder She Didn’t Write’ has been successful in developing an engaging improvised murder mystery comedy. The balance of comedy and narrative of the story chosen, provides audiences with a fun filled evening with slapstick humour and brilliant off the cuff jokes.
You can book your ticket and learn more about this production via the link below…
https://www.pleasance.co.uk/event/murder-she-didnt-write-0#overview
Theatre Scotland 
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