Classic Murder Mystery Delights at BOTTG

The Benicia Old Town Theatre Group’s 51st Season has opened successfully with the classic murder mystery, DIAL M FOR
MURDER, by Frederick Knott. Hitchcock’s well known 1954 film adaptation of same featured Grace Kelly, the late Princess of Monaco.  

Recent Arty Award winners, Rebecca Grayce and Alan Coyne, take lead roles again as Margot and Tony Wendice. In the play, Tony’s plan to murder his wealthy wife is foiled when Margot accidentally kills her assailant. Grayce’s convincing and natural portrayal of Margot, and Coyne’s nuanced performance of the despicable husband, gave the plot its necessary weight.

The actors spoke in playful terms of their work together:
Grayce of Coyne, “He’s made the perfect Tony.”
Coyne to Grayce, “If it’s any consolation, I would never hire
someone to kill you. I would do it myself. Personal touch.”
Grayce, laughing, “Thank you.”

James Higdon and Scott Poitras gave strong performances as Inspector Hubbard and Captain Lesgate, respectively. Drew Walther’s slightly self conscious portrayal of Max Halliday, Margot’s love interest, worked to diminish the illusion of romantic connection between Max and Margot. New comer Jeff Ribeiro as Thompson rounded out the cast.

Between big smiles, the ebullient Director, Gregg Klein, asserted, “It’s a really, really good show. Everybody’s worked so hard. It’s a nice family of people to work with here.”

With a warm welcome to all and a special greeting to Benicia Mayor Elizabeth Patterson and Solano County Supervisor Linda Seifert, President Dan Clark happily announced BOTTG’s renewed Non Profit status and a donation from Valero Refinery Benicia which will be used to upgrade the theatre’s lighting system.

Theatre playbills mentioned honors received from the Benicia City Council, the Solano County Board of Supervisors and Benicia Main Street for ongoing contributions to the artistic health of the community. BOTTG also swept the county wide Arty Awards for Best Show, Director, Actor and Actress in the comedy category for their Spring production of SAME TIME, NEXT YEAR. “It’s truly been humbling and inspiring to have our efforts recognized and applauded.”

Calling attention to eye-catching flyers on the tables, Clark acknowledged Beate Brühl, Restoration Artist and recent recipient of the prestigious California Historic Preservation Award. “BOTTG is fortunate to have Beate Brühl as a volunteer set painter for over four years. Beate brings our stage to life with rich detail, texture, and color that captures the imagination.”

Be sure to catch a performance of DIAL M FOR MURDER, now through November 8. $20 General Admission. 8 PM Fridays and Saturdays, 2 PM Sunday matinees. BDES Hall, 140 West J. Street, Benicia. Visit: beniciaoldtowntheatregroup.com for details.