It starts with a bang in the darkness, a potentially reckless decision given that 80 percent of the audience was over the age of 60. The loud bang that sped from the slanted stage into the grand arena seemed to violently ricochet off the headrest of my chair and slap me in the eardrums – an abrupt opening to say the least. From that moment on, A Dangerous Corner appears smug in that accomplishment and is too proud to attempt any further impact, shy to even make a ripple.

Despite the loud opening second, the remainder of the play descends into a dim murmur. J.B.Priestley’s mystery is rather dull in this current reincarnation. As a passing guest, novelist Miss Mockridge (Rosie Armstrong) provides a little sass and intrigue. Her swift observations that all is not what it seems are spot on. However, once she and her very loud orange attire leave the room the scene becomes a little duller. The truth is that there is nothing drastically wrong with the production nor is there anything to reveal in; its fault is that it seems to rest on its laurels. Michael Praed delivers an understated, compelling performance almost better suited for cinema, whilst the rest of the cast is rather lacklustre.

The ‘secrets’ of this snug little group are thrust into the open by the clumsy probing of Robert (Colin Buchanan), who refuses to let sleeping dogs lie. He is intent on rebuking every member of his party into spilling their shrill secrets.  They take it in turns to confess their wrongs and the play continues in a formulaic sequence of revelations; undying love, murder suspicions and theft – no rock gets left unturned. Their confessions become a neat little circle where everyone gets their turn in the therapy session. Michael Attenborough’s direction was subtle, leaving the script to speak for itself. Had there been a fresh, satirical approach to the production perhaps some fresh blood may have been pumped into it, or even a greater commitment to fun.

The set design and costumes, designed by Gary McCann, provide a visual treat that relays the opulent world that the friends belong to. The female actors are dressed in vibrant outfits whilst the gentlemen are wearing personalised suits. The living room is adorned in a metallic hue and whiskey and cigarettes are a dime a dozen.  The vibrant scene that McCann creates is deflated by the seemingly tired performances of the cast.

The second act picks up a little steam and the swift turn at the end is enjoyable. As the secrets involving Robert’s brother come to fruition it is doubtful that this group can remain intact. However, the conclusion to the frivolous antics of the decadent group is left a little wanting.

Ultimately, the production is very safe. It was hardly a ‘Dangerous Corner’, though we may presume that ‘Nonthreatening Circle’ didn’t have to same ring to it.

A Dangerous Corner is showing at Richmond Theatre until 4 October. For tickets and further information see the ATG Tickets website.