After a five-year delay due to pandemic disruptions, Smoke and Mirrors Productions is set to deliver a gripping new take on Frederick Knott’s classic thriller Dial M For Murder this August at Theatre Works in St Kilda.
Originally thwarted by 2020’s lockdowns, this highly anticipated production promises to reignite Melbourne’s love affair with suspenseful theatre.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Dean Drieberg, the play brings fresh energy to the iconic tale of Tony Wendice, a man who meticulously plots his wife’s murder -only for his “perfect crime” to unravel in unexpected ways.
First staged over seven decades ago, the story remains startlingly relevant, exploring themes of betrayal, greed, and deception that still resonate today.
“From the beginning, we wanted to honor Hitchcock’s legacy while making the story feel immediate for modern audiences,” says Smoke and Mirrors Creative Director Josh Sanders. The production cleverly spans eras, with sets and costumes evolving from the 1950s to the present day—a bold choice that underscores the timelessness of its dark themes.
Presented as part of Theatre Works’ programming, this limited season offers a rare chance to experience Knott’s masterpiece live. Tickets are now on sale for the August 7-16 run, promising a night of razor-sharp twists and chilling intrigue.
