Cluedo The Play opened last night at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre, bringing loads of chaos, comedy and murder to the stage.

Adapted for theatre by Sandy Rustin and based on Jonathan Lynn’s screenplay for the 1985 cult film Clue — itself inspired by the iconic 1949 Hasbro board game — this production wears its pop-culture roots proudly. For fans of the film in particular, there are plenty of affectionate nods woven throughout.

Set in 1949 on a wild, thunder-filled night in New England, the story begins as six unfamiliar guests make their way to the ominous Boddy Manor, each hiding behind an assumed name. It soon becomes clear they share a dangerous secret: all of them are being extorted by the same host. Before long — within the first half hour — a murder shocks the group. What follows is a fast-paced whirlwind of slammed doors, frantic chases from room to room, and desperate attempts to identify the culprit. Suspicions shift constantly, alliances form and collapse, and the body count steadily rises. The humor leans big and boldly absurd, blending clever dialogue with lively physical comedy. Although the plot twists are skillfully executed, I found myself figuring out the mystery relatively early — but that hardly lessened the enjoyment of watching the chaos play out.

James Browne’s scenic design is a showstopper. He’s said the set functions as its own character, and that description feels spot on. Dominating the stage is the imposing Hall, framed by deep wood tones, soaring walls, heavy curtains and the iconic chandelier — mercifully left unscathed. Every space has a distinct identity (the library stood out in particular), and the moving panels and countless doorways give the impression of a giant, meticulously crafted dollhouse. The craftsmanship is detailed and inventive, and all the more impressive knowing it can be dismantled and transported for touring. Browne’s wardrobe choices are just as eye-catching, outfitting each role in their trademark hue. The sweeping coats worn for the guests’ entrances are especially striking — even if they disappear all too quickly.

Running a swift 90 minutes without a break, the production barely pauses for breath. The closing sequence, fittingly dubbed “The Revelation,” races ahead at full throttle. The nonstop momentum heightens the farcical tone, though I couldn’t help but feel that an additional 20 or 30 minutes — along with an interval — might have given both the performers and the audience a moment to reset.

Grant Piro commands attention as Wadsworth, anchoring the entire performance with precision timing and control. Whenever the action threatens to tip into total disorder, he deftly pulls it back together — most notably in a flawlessly delivered, high-speed summary of the evening’s events that prompted well-earned applause on opening night.

The ensemble embraces the exaggerated style wholeheartedly. Lawrence Boxhall’s Reverend Green pairs sharp physical humor with dry wit. Adam Murphy presents Colonel Mustard with a fondness for literal jokes and playful puns — a slight shift from the film version — but his easy charm makes it thoroughly enjoyable. David James infuses Professor Plum with bold assurance, while Olivia Deeble gives Miss Scarlett a mix of warmth and quiet seduction. Genevieve Lemon relishes the role of Mrs Peacock, hilariously channeling the quintessential domineering mother-in-law, and Rachael Beck offers a refined yet darkly amusing Mrs White. Supporting players Octavia Barron-Martin, Lib Campbell, Nat Jobe and Joshua Monaghan seamlessly rotate through multiple parts — from Mr Boddy and the Cook to Yvette, the stranded motorist, the policeman and the singing telegram girl — without missing a beat.

Vibrant, lavishly designed and brimming with theatrical energy, Cluedo delivers an entertaining evening at the theatre. It may hurtle along at a dizzying speed, but it’s irresistibly enjoyable — a reminder that even a tale of murder can be wickedly funny when staged with such flair.

To find out more information or to get yours tickets visit cluedoplay.com.au

X Steph

Photos by Jeff Busby