This unique performance, a certified sell-out hit, combines the thrill of a murder mystery with the spontaneity of improvisational theatre, creating an experience that is both captivating and laugh-out-loud hilarious. There is a wide range of improvised comedy expertise available at FRINGE WORLD – but Murder Village is by far the most sophisticated, riotous, and well-executed. It is truly a masterclass in improvisation – and murder.

The premise of Murder Village is simple yet ingenious. The audience votes via QR code on who they want to see as the victim and the murderer, and from there, the talented cast takes over, weaving an intricate and entertaining story on the spot. Even as the audience, we don’t know the victim (until it’s too late), the murderer, the murder weapon, or which clue will lead us to the outcome. There are no shouted-out suggestions at the start or names drawn from a hat. Is the frequent mention of Monte Carlos or quiches the giveaway? You won’t know until the last minute.

The concept of the silent set-up of the improvised outcome is a jewel in the heavily studded crown of the production. It means that about 10 minutes in, you ask yourself – “Wait, are they already improvising? I didn’t realise!” It’s simply that good.

Over the next hour, the improvisers bring their characters’ beliefs and grudges to life with such authenticity and humour that you can’t help but be drawn into the Agatha Christie-like world of Murder Village. The chemistry between the cast members is both comedic and compelling – with each actor attempting to outdo the rest in terms of ridiculousness. Watching them watch each other, trying to hold it together, is a treat unto itself.

Murder Village: An Improvised Whodunnit is an absolute gem of a show that will leave you on the edge of your seat, laughing and guessing until the very end. I couldn’t recommend it more highly.