An art-fully crafted classic crime thriller
As a newcomer to the world of Peter James’ Roy Grace, I went to see Picture You Dead at MK Theatre with no prior knowledge of the books or characters. What I found was an artfully crafted crime thriller and a suspense-filled production that stands confidently on its own, offering plenty for both fans and first-time viewers alike.
The play opens innocently enough with Harry (Ben Cutler) and Freya Kipling played by Fiona Wade (Emmerdale), a sweet and likeable couple who stumble upon a lost painting at a local car boot sale. What begins as a stroke of luck quickly spirals into a nightmare, as the painting’s existence draws them into the ruthless world of high-stakes art crime. Both leads deliver grounded, emotional performances capturing the terror and confusion of two ordinary people thrust into extraordinary danger.
Detective Superintendent Roy Grace played by George Rainsford (Call The Midwife, Casualty), played with measured gravitas, anchors the investigative storyline. Even without prior familiarity, Grace comes across as a cool, calm and intelligent detective. His partnership on stage with DC Bella Moy played by Gemma Stroyan (Taggart, Lockerbie) works easily and flawlessly and I now want to read Peter James’ Roy Grace books to understand and get to know this character.
The true standouts, however, are the play’s chilling villains, art collector Stuart Piper played by Nicholas Maude and his consultant Roberta Kilgore (Jodie Steele) characters steeped in obsession and menace, whose presence looms large even when offstage and nothing is off limits in their quest for ‘Summer’, a long lost Fragonard. Nothing, including murder.
Dave Hegarty played by Peter Ash (Coronation Street) is a perfect portrayal of a real life copyist, David Henty, whose story makes for fascinating reading and the inspiration for this tale. Hegarty is delightfully devious and brings much colour to the stage.
Throughout there is this psychological intensity with fast-paced dialogue and a clear narrative thread that’s easy to follow. With so many twists and turns the story has you questioning everyone, what is real, fake or even deep fake?
Technically, the production is sleek and effective. The set design effortlessly shifts between domestic spaces, art galleries, and police offices, while clever lighting cues and sound design add a palpable sense of threat. Great direction keeps the pacing taut, ensuring the suspense never wanes.
While there are fleeting references to Grace’s backstory and personal life that long-time fans will likely appreciate more fully, the play is careful not to alienate new viewers. It succeeds as a standalone thriller, with a story that’s as accessible as it is gripping.
Picture You Dead is a finely crafted crime drama that translates Peter James’ world to the stage with clarity, suspense, and style. Whether you’re a fan of the Roy Grace novels or simply in search of a sharp, modern thriller, this production delivers a compelling night at the theatre that’s accessible for newcomers and satisfying for fans.
This performance is at Milton Keynes Theatre until 10th May 2025. Tickets are available from £15.00 (+ £3.95 transaction fee), General bookings: 0844 871 7615, Access bookings:0333 009 5399, Group bookings:0207 206 1174 or online.
Reviewed by:
I’m a proud MK resident of over 46 years watching it grow from a new town to a bustling business, social and cultural city.
I work in the NHS and enjoy an eclectic social life exploring everything Milton Keynes has in the diary.
