Review: Sold Out Opening Night of “Strictly Murder” Gets Huge Standing Ovation

The surprise ending of the Hampton Theatre Company’s Production of “Strictly Murder” propelled the opening Saturday night audience to rise as one to give a standing ovation. “Strictly Murder,” written by Brian Clemens, will run at the Quogue Community Hall until March 24th. Directed by Mary Powers, this Hampton Theatre Company’s production of “Strictly Murder” is a winner. Andrew Botsford and Roger Moley produce this show. Hampton Theatre Company House Manager Julia Morgan Abrams gracefully handled the seating once again.

This show takes place in a rustic cottage in a valley in Provence, France in 1939 and both resident Set Designers/Builders Ricky Bottenus and Meg Sexton have constructed a wonderful set. Their attention to period detail enhances the atmosphere and reality of this show. “Strictly Murder” is a show that draws you in from the first lines and keeps you thinking and wondering right up to the surprise ending. The audience was as quiet as one can be as everyone was thinking what might happen next. One could tell the audience’s enjoyment by the applause after every scene. Once again the Hampton Theatre Company has put together a fine show that entertained the audience. This show is one fine night of local East End Theater worth buying a ticket and attending.

The talent of Dayne Rasmussen was showcased wonderfully by Director Mary Powers. His portrayal of Peter Meredith added an energy that carried the show. Mr. Rasmussen connected with the audience. His complex character was a challenge he mastered. Matthew Conlon was “doubly” good in his role as Ross. Mr. Conlon is always at home on the stage at Quogue Community Hall. He is a Hampton Theatre Company stalwart and favorite.

Ashley Underwood starred as Suzy Hinchcliffe. She carried the show with her simple, elegant presence throughout the production. Ms. Hinchcliffe distinct skill set was always on display as she glided around the stage clearly delivering her lines. The audience enjoyed Scott Hofer as Josef. Mr. Hofer showed his range as an actor in this complex role. His magical stage presence was obvious in every scene he was in.

Catherine Maloney, another Hampton Theatre Company favorite, dazzled playing the role of Miriam Miller. Ms. Maloney was spot on with distinct movements and gestures attuned to the role.

Accolades to Director Mary Powers because her cast is a cohesive team. The show flowed and had a certain energy level that never dropped or stopped; instead, it just kept building for the surprise ending.

Teresa Lebrun does a great job putting the cast in period costumes. Sebastian Paczynski’s lighting design adds pizazz at just the right moments, as do the fade-ins and outs. Congratulations to Nicholas Auletti for his lighting/tech work during the show and to Tech Director Ricky Bottenus. The Production Stage Manager is Laurie Atlas, and a shout-out must go to Meg Sexton for the instrumental sound magic.

This is The Hampton Theatre Company’s 39^th season and is dedicated to Quogue residents and longtime supporters Don and Judy Gruhn.