Buntport Theatre is truly unique. They do theatre differently than any other company I’ve ever known. Instead of starting with a script, they start with something-it could be a book, an idea, a loose concept, or, as with their latest offering, a genre. Then they transform that into a play. But they do not do things simply or superficially, tempting thought that might be. They truly reinterpret the original material, and in doing so, create something fresh and new. Their current production, McGuinn & Murry, has fun with the detective story genre, but it has its own interesting storyline, fully defined characters, and clever twists and turns. And all elements of the play are created collaboratively and in parallel, allowing for more integration of elements such as costume, scenery, acting, and direction.

McGuinn & Murry is both a spoof and a tribute to the 1940’s detective story and Film Noir genre. The story starts with our two detectives waiting for work, killing time by making up mysteries to solve. One of these mysteries takes on a life of its own, creating much more than a simple mind exercise. McGuinn is on the case-and the fact that he is his own prime suspect doesn’t slow him down one bit. Murry joins in, at first thinking it is just a mind exercise, until both get swept up into a real mystery. Maybe.

The language of this play is brilliant. I’ve always loved the 1940’s detective movies, and the dialogue perfectly captures the genre. Both actors deliver their lines with just the right amount of affectation-it sets everything up so well. Most impressive is that this dialogue was created entirely by the Buntport crew, though they undoubtedly watched a few classic films along the way.

With only two actors playing all the roles, much of the show depends on Erin Rollman and Erik Edborg. Both are more than up to the task. Edborg captures the hard-boiled detective McGuinn well, and contrasts that with the fastidious Pauly. Rollman is very good as Murry, and brilliant as she transforms herself first in to the ditzy Budge, then into a barkeep, and finally completely changing her voice, stature, and gender to become the Fat Man. The culmination of the story is hilarious and delightful to watch, as both actors bounce back and forth between multiple clearly-defined characters, never missing a beat.

The scenery becomes almost a character on its own. It is one of the most transformable sets I have ever seen anywhere. There are many clever devices used throughout the show. The lighting is competent, providing some variety and good illumination. The costumes were, like the set, an integral part of the transformation of the actors. Simple but clear changes helped differentiate the characters well.

McGuinn & Murry is a pleasure to watch. The pacing is excellent, the plot twists and the multiple characterizations are incredibly creative, the dialogue is very funny, and the acting is top-notch. If you would like a fun evening of creative and clever theatre, then go see McGuinn & Murry at Buntport. And if you choose one of the right performances, you get the bonus of live local music beforehand.

-Craig Williamson, May 2008, North Denver Tribune