The Real Inspector Hound
In Theatre II’s latest production, two critics watch a murder-mystery play, but they soon become involved in the murder themselves…
By Marlee Newman, contributing writer
Posted on January 25, 2007

The Stratford Players’ production of Tom Stoppard’s “The Real Inspector Hound” begins with a pause: a deep breath before the plunge into a world of theater, critics and death. 

The set, designed by junior Jackson Thompson, is a basic living area, with double doors, bar and a few tables. There are two seats on a raised platform, where the critics Birdboot and Moon oversee the whodunit before being drawn into the action themselves.

The play begins when Birdboot enters and greets his fellow critic, Moon. Immediately following, Birdboot, played by senior Sean McIntyre, questions the whereabouts of another, more prestigious critic. This begins a hysterical dual commentary that lasts throughout the majority of the play.

The hilarity continues with the entrance of Mrs. Drudge, portrayed brilliantly by sophomore Lauren Ramsey. From her first entrance to her final exit, Ramsey’s Drudge is an innocent bystander to keep an eye on.

Relationships between the characters swirl around the audience, with constant observations by Birdboot and Moon, who are focusing on their personal lives with the actors as well as the infamous missing critic. One would think that with these dynamics, the play within the play and the critics, would be difficult to follow. On the contrary, the cast, production team and excellent directing by junior Asher Nicholson help make it delightfully clear.

“Everything fit together really well,” freshman audience member Christie McDonnell said. “It wasn’t too confusing, because everything flowed together so smoothly.”

Due to the raised platform on which the critics sit, and the light changes which indicate the characters’ prominence, the dual plots of “The Real Inspector Hound” are clearly defined. Until, that is, they join together and take a more sinister turn.

The cast plays with and against each other wonderfully, creating interesting interactions. It is incredibly difficult for a production to walk the line between farce and too much camp, but Nicholson’s cast walks this line beautifully.

People who come to see Tom Stoppard’s “The Real Inspector Hound” should come prepared to laugh, prepared to think, and prepared to question just who the real Inspector Hound really is.

“The Real Inspector Hound” will continue its run at Theatre II through Jan. 27 at 8 p.m., with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets can be bought two hours before the show at the door for $3.