Take an onion and gradually peel away the layers of skin one at a time; in this action you have the methodology of Richard Harris when he wrote ‘The Business of Murder’.

Harris smartly reveals little by little of the full plot, allowing the audience to work out how it is all connected up – it is ingenious and inspired. The relationship between the mysterious Stone, a detective (Hallet) and a TV playwright (Dee) slowly makes itself obvious; murder is just one thing they have in common. However, is anyone quite what they appear to be?

Andrew Beckett creates an excellent set; a small apartment in London from the 1980s; it is packed with doors, cupboards and shades of brown. Stone is a huge role and Dominic McChesney fairly dribbles with delight at the game-playing involved; the sudden, almost childlike, energised movements as the character is plotting, is joyful and in the next moment, a look or a reaction is steeped in the sinister. Described in the play as being ‘prissy’, there is no better way to describe Stone and McChesney makes it his own with a sharp tongue and a waspish turn of phrase. It is a performance which covers many different hues and is unsettling, as it should be, it is also terrific.

The roles of Hallet and Dee are rather more straightforward in some ways – or are they? Simon Chappell is an extremely effective contrast as Hallet; his world-weary demeanour develops into increasing incredulity as the plots unravels. Likewise Stephanie Lodge, presents Dee as confident and in control but her gradual realisation of what is happening is very cleverly delivered.

The shifting power struggle that evolves is full of intensity, bursts of anger, violence and packed with intrigue – it’s a riveting mixture. The play also carries with it rather more humour than you might expect and requires a cast to work seamlessly together and this is what is presented here. Director, Ellie Chadwick, ensures the play moves with great pace and ramps the tension so effectively, especially at the climax.

Another cracking entry into the 2023 Sidmouth Summer Play Festival and if you fancy a wonderful thriller – look no further.

The Ray Cooney farce ‘Run for Your Wife’ is next in the Season, running from 14-19 August; tickets are available at www.manorpavilion.com.