The new stage adaptation of Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller, Dial M for Murder, directed by Dean Drieberg, is set to confront contemporary audiences with stark realities of violence against women. Running at Theatre Works from August 7 to 16, 2025, the production aims to bridge the gap between the 1950s context and today’s societal issues.
Drieberg recognized that the narrative, which revolves around a man plotting to murder his wife, resonates differently in the current climate. He stated, “Last year alone, 103 women were killed by men in Australia. I couldn’t avoid that statistic and I wanted to point at that with this play and this production.” This awareness shapes the adaptation, which seeks to highlight not only the thrilling plot but also the darker undercurrents of misogyny and toxic masculinity.
Adapting a Classic with Contemporary Themes
The resurgence of stage thrillers has gained momentum, with productions like The Talented Mr Ripley and Gaslight making waves across the country. Dial M for Murder stands out due to its complex relationship with Hitchcock, whose treatment of leading actresses has been scrutinized in recent years. Tippi Hedren, star of The Birds, has alleged she faced sexual assault at Hitchcock’s hands, adding a layer of complexity to the director’s legacy.
Drieberg’s approach involves respecting Hitchcock’s cinematic strengths while simultaneously addressing the troubling aspects of his character. “I love Hitchcock’s films. I’ve loved them since I was a teenager. Him as a person, that’s a different story. We’ve had a lot of really problematic behavior from him, especially how he treated his female stars,” Drieberg commented. He aims to explore themes of ego, toxic masculinity, and the patriarchy throughout the production.
Balancing Nostalgia and Modernity
Drieberg has chosen to remain faithful to the original 1952 stage play, while infusing contemporary elements into the production. He emphasized the importance of catering to diverse audience expectations, stating, “We start it grounded in the ’50s and very much lean into the style of that time. Then we slowly introduce more contemporary elements.” This dual approach allows the production to resonate with both fans of the original film and those curious about its modern reinterpretation.
Design, costume, and sound elements will shift between the 1950s aesthetic and contemporary influences. The score, for instance, embraces the role of music in cinematic thrillers but integrates electro influences reminiscent of 1980s films. As the production unfolds, the acting style will transition from the more mannered performances typical of the era to a portrayal that feels more relatable to a modern audience.
Drieberg is particularly focused on the psychological depth of the characters. He pointed out that traditional portrayals often lack the complexity needed to convey the reality of violent motivations. “There’s another character in the play who mentions that the main motives of a murderer are ego, money, and revenge,” he explained. His research into real-life cases of domestic violence informed this perspective, revealing that many violent acts stem from challenges to masculine control.
Drieberg’s adaptation aims to present a nuanced portrayal of the characters, moving beyond the archetypes to explore the darker aspects of human nature. “I don’t want to shy away from those elements,” he noted.
As Dial M for Murder prepares to open, it promises to engage audiences not only with its thrilling plot but also with a deeper examination of the societal issues that continue to resonate today. The production invites viewers to reflect on the themes of violence and control, ensuring that the legacy of Hitchcock is both celebrated and critically examined.
