Dial "M" For Murder

Creative Team

 

Written by Frederic Knott / Directed by Fred Rubeck / Scenic Design Brandon PT Davis / Costume Design Alice Crist / Lighting Design Savannah Bell / Sound Design Kayla Sliger / Okoboji Summer Theatre/ 2023

Abstract

My scenic design for Frederick Knott’s thrilling play, "Dial M for Murder," is crafted to amplify the narrative's suspense and intricate dynamics through minimalist design principles. The set subtly indicates the apartment setting of Tony and Margot Wendice while surrounding the space in darkness, enhancing the play’s mysterious and tense atmosphere. This deliberate choice of minimalism focuses the audience's attention on the characters and their interactions and heightens the dramatic tension integral to the storytelling.

In approaching this design, I was deeply inspired by the necessity to create an environment that serves both as a functional space for the actors and as a visual metaphor for the underlying themes of deception and danger. The sparse yet intentional furnishings and decor elements are carefully selected to suggest the apartment’s elegance and sophistication without overwhelming the scene. By keeping the surrounding areas in darkness, I aimed to create a sense of confinement and isolation, pivotal to the plot’s psychological impact. This is particularly effective during critical moments, such as Tony’s plotting of the perfect murder, Margot's struggle with her assailant, and the investigation led by Inspector Hubbard.

This approach ensures that the scenic design complements the narrative and elevates the audience’s immersive experience, drawing them deeper into the world of "Dial M for Murder." By integrating these design choices, I aimed to create a setting that enhances the tension and mystery, making the audience feel the characters’ entrapment and heightening the overall impact of the play