Dial M for Murder

adapted by JEFFREY HATCHER
from the original by FREDERICK KNOTT
directed by TRACY BRIGDEN

January 20 - February 25, 2024

A plot-twisting thriller

While in London promoting her new murder mystery, Maxine drops in on her former lover Margot who shares some distressing news: She’s being blackmailed for a love letter from Maxine that went missing after their affair ended. Margot thinks her husband Tony is none the wiser, but he knows everything — and then some. In fact, his yearlong plan to have Margot murdered will commence the next night, thanks to an airtight alibi. But when Margot kills her assailant in self-defense, Tony’s plot takes an unexpected turn. This clever, fast-paced adaptation adds extra layers to the iconic tale, making the “Will he get away with it?” question even more thrilling.

Three things to know

  • Dial M for Murder is not a whodunit; the tension comes from knowing who did it and how — and if they’ll get away with it.  
  • This iconic thriller has had multiple lives. It was originally produced as a BBC Television production in 1952, then a stage play and finally the well-known 1954 film directed by Alfred Hitchcock and starring Grace Kelly and Ray Milland. 
  • Jeffrey Hatcher’s adaptation, which was approved by the Frederick Knott Estate, premiered in July 2022 at The Old Globe in San Diego. Hatcher’s work has regularly appeared on the Guthrie stage, including his original play The Falls in 2006.

Ticket prices

Ticket prices range from $29 to $82.

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Group sales 

All student and adult groups of 15 or more qualify for discounts on tickets to Guthrie productions. Group Sales is available Tuesday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 612.225.6244 or 1.877.225.6211 (toll-free) or send an email. 

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Venue info

This production will take place on the Wurtele Thrust Stage.

Pro tip: Can't do stairs or have a special seating request? Call the Box Office for details. 

Age recommendation

We recommend Dial M for Murder for ages 12 and up. Everyone must have a ticket, and children under 5 are not admitted.

Content advisory

This production contains mature themes, moments of violence, the use of electronic cigarettes, smoke, strobe lights and haze. Call the Box Office for more information. 

Run time

Approximately 2 hours, 15 minutes (including intermission). 

Digital program

Want to dig deeper into the story? Download the digital program.

Accessibility

ASL-interpreted, audio-described and open-captioned performances are available on select dates.

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Post-play discussions

Join us after select performances for a 20-minute conversation facilitated by Guthrie staff. Cast members may join the discussion as they are able.

Post-play discussions are supported by Fredrikson & Byron. 

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Hidden in Plain Sight: Lesbian Fashion History 

Friday, February 16
5:30–7:15 p.m.
Level One event space

 In a recorded virtual lecture, Eleanor Medhurst, author of Unsuitable: A History of Lesbian Fashion, will explore the history and politics of lesbian, queer, and gender nonconforming style. Drinks will be available for purchase. 

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A note about ticket resellers

The Guthrie Theater Box Office is the official and most secure way to purchase tickets. We cannot guarantee that tickets purchased through any other vendor or third-party seller are valid.

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Video

Adapting a thriller

Jeffrey Hatcher's carefully crafted adaptation of Dial M for Murder and Director Tracy Brigden's directorial debut at the Guthrie go as well together as an olive and martini.

Hear from both on their experience adapting this thriller for the stage. 

 

In the costume shop

Costume Designer Valérie Thérèse Bart walks through her process of designing and collaborating within the boundaries of a period piece.

Artists

Cast

Brian Thomas Abraham

Inspector Hubbard

Gretchen Egolf

Margot Wendice

Peter Christian Hansen

Lesgate

David Andrew Macdonald

Tony Wendice

Lori Vega

Maxine Hadley

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Creative

Jeffrey Hatcher

Adapter

Tracy Brigden

Director

Walt Spangler

Scenic Designer

Valérie Thérèse Bart

Costume Designer

Xavier Pierce

Lighting Designer

John Gromada

Sound Designer/Composer

Keely Wolter

Vocal Coach

Aaron Preusse

Fight Director

Karl Alphonso

Stage Manager

Kathryn Sam Houkom

Assistant Stage Manager

Placeholder for Frederick Knott

Frederick Knott

Author

Jennifer Liestman

Resident Casting Director

Doug Scholz-Carlson

Intimacy

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Photos

Lori Vega and Gretchen Egolf (Dan Norman)

Peter Christian Hansen and David Andrew Macdonald (Dan Norman)

Lori Vega (Dan Norman)

Brian Thomas Abraham (Dan Norman)

Lori Vega and Gretchen Egolf (Dan Norman)

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