Veteran Australian actress Anna Samson is making a highly anticipated return to live theatre, taking on a leading role in what's being described as a 'sexed-up' new production of an Alfred Hitchcock classic.
A Modern Take on a Classic Thriller
The Home and Away favourite, 35, has embraced the lead role of Margot in a bold new interpretation of Dial M for Murder at Sydney's prestigious Ensemble Theatre. Her co-star Garth Holcombe told Daily Mail that their collaboration has generated remarkable energy on stage.
'Anna brings incredible depth to her performance,' Holcombe revealed. 'Having recently completed extensive screen work and other stage productions in Sydney, she arrives completely prepared and knows exactly what she's doing with our ensemble.'
This classic thriller receives a provocative 2025 update that includes character swaps, sharper sexual politics and a contemporary edge while maintaining the original story's signature tension.
Building Chemistry and Trust
Before rehearsals commenced, the cast members bonded during what Holcombe described as a 'cheeky' pre-rehearsal dinner. He emphasised the importance of this gesture in developing their professional relationship.
'I believe that establishing personal connections is crucial when building trust and rapport with fellow actors,' Holcombe explained. 'That initial bonding experience created a foundation for our working dynamic.'
Holcombe portrays the villainous Tony, who conspires to murder his wife Margot, played by Samson, to claim her inheritance. He confirms the 1952 play has been thoughtfully updated to resonate with contemporary audiences.
What Audiences Can Expect
According to Holcombe, theatregoers should prepare for an experience combining suspense, glamour and undeniable chemistry between the performers.
'Audiences will be plunged into a thrilling 1950s world with extraordinary sets and costumes,' he promised. 'The production delivers sexiness, danger and pure entertainment.'
He clarified that this interpretation doesn't attempt to replicate the iconic film or previous stage performances. 'We're creating our own distinctive world. Several characters have been subtly rearranged, bringing the story into 2025 in both provocative and sensual ways.'
Holcombe expressed particular admiration for this fresh approach: 'This version provides new motivation for telling the story. While maintaining the 1952 setting, the updated political context makes it feel remarkably current. The adjustments to sexual politics, relationships and perspectives have been handled with great intelligence.'
Dial M for Murder originally debuted as a stage play in 1952 before legendary director Alfred Hitchcock adapted it into his iconic 1954 film starring Grace Kelly and Ray Milland. The production continues the tradition of global performances, drawing inspiration from American playwright Jeffrey Hatcher's 2022 modern reinterpretation.
Anna Samson added her perspective in a separate statement: 'Theatre enthusiasts can anticipate the nostalgic experience they seek... it's genuinely spine-tingling. The production maintains a dark edge while providing rompy entertainment.'
The cast features additional Australian acting veterans including David Soncin, Madeleine Jones and Kenneth Moraleda.
Holcombe brings nearly three decades of stage and screen experience, having appeared in television series including Home and Away, Head Start, In Our Blood, and the Sydney-filmed Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen feature Our Lips Are Sealed.
Meanwhile, Samson, who portrayed Mia Anderson on Home and Away from 2021 to 2022, currently stars as Detective Sergeant Mackenzie Clarke in the ABC drama Return to Paradise alongside Damian Walshe-Howling.
Dial M For Murder runs at Kirribilli's Ensemble Theatre from Friday, 28 November to Sunday, 11 January, 2026.
