by Peter Gordon
Directed by Simon Foley

This hilarious whodunit combines classic murder mystery tropes with sidesplitting comedy.

Set in a 1930s English country manor, the play introduces a cast of delightfully eccentric characters, including a bumbling inspector, a snooty aristocrat, a mysterious femme fatale, and a butler who’s perhaps too proper. When a murder is discovered, everyone becomes a suspect in a case brimming with twists, turns, and hilariously disastrous detective work.

Will the killer be caught—or will Inspector Pratt bungle the investigation beyond repair?

Prepare for a night of laughter, intrigue, and surprises in this clever spoof of the Agatha Christie genre.

Peter Gordon is a renowned British playwright celebrated for his sharp wit and brilliant comedic timing. With a background in both writing and directing, Gordon has crafted numerous plays that have delighted audiences around the world. His works often parody classic genres, blending humour with clever storytelling to create engaging and entertaining theatre experiences.

Gordon's talent for comedy shines in his most popular plays, including "Murdered to Death," the first instalment in his Inspector Pratt trilogy. This series of plays pays homage to the traditional British murder mystery, incorporating a host of quirky characters and farcical situations that have made them favourites in community theatres and professional productions alike.

Known for his keen eye for the absurdities of human nature, Peter Gordon's plays are characterized by their strong character development, intricate plots, and an ever-present sense of fun. His ability to combine elements of suspense with humour ensures that audiences are both intrigued and amused from start to finish.

Patricia has performed in Auckland theatre for 25+ years, earning a NAPTA for Joseph and appearing in Phantom, Les Mis, and Chess. She is a trained vocalist who has performed professionally, worked in voiceover and TV, and reviewed theatre. She has mentored performers, coached vocals, and served as a 2024 NAPTA judge. Last seen at Dolphin Theatre in Calendar Girls, will she be just as naked in Murdered to Death?

Last seen as Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, Paul is delighted to be returning to Dolphin and to be working with Simon and such a talented cast. Paul first played Inspector Pratt many years ago at the Rose Theatre and is looking forward to reprising the role.

Lisa was last seen as a long suffering housemaid at Howick Little Theatre. She is now relishing playing a long suffering wife here at Dolphin. At least this role has more cachet and a better costume, one hopes.

Finn is thrilled to debut in his first play at Dolphin Theatre, and very excited to now be a part of the big leagues. He’s had a wonderful time playing the English bobby, Thompkins, and being directed by the amazing Simon Foley.

Mark has been performing comedy for years, starting in schools and later in Roger Hall plays, The Vicar of Dibley (David Horton), The Addams Family (Uncle Fester), and 'Allo 'Allo! as René. Playing a rich old duffer? He’s halfway there!

Charlie’s previous stage credits include a man, a descamisado, and a spider-obsessed witch. Her New Year’s resolution was to become more glamorous, luckily Elizabeth brings to the stage exactly that.

Very excited to perform at the Dolphin. Let's hope we can get the lines out and not trip over the furniture.

Ophelia is very excited to partake in her first Dolphin show! After a Drama degree and many youth and community theatre musicals, she is excited to take to the stage in her first comedic play.

Linda is no stranger to the Dolphin having performed in a number of shows over the years the last one being The Revival in 2021. Really enjoying this fun script & talented company.

David is delighted to be returning to the Dolphin in what is a very funny show. He is honored to have been able to share in the creation of a show that will no doubt leave the audience rolling in the aisles. He wishes much love to all the cast and crew who are a delight to work with.