
In 1935, a tiger shark held in Coogee Aquarium regurgitated a human arm bearing a distinctive tattoo. This bizarre event kick-started an investigation that took 1930s Sydney by storm. Now this riveting tale of fraud, questionable morality and murder is being phenomenally retold by Deadhouse Productions. Masterfully written by Kyla Lee Ward and performed within the eerie hallways of the Justice and Police Museum, The Shark Arm Case is a gripping and thought-provoking immersive theatre experience.
Deadhouse Productions, founded in 2007 by Stephen Carnell, specialises in Australian true crime dramas performed in historic locations. The Justice and Police Museum is used incredibly well to tell the story. From the moment one enters the space, the experience is immersive and engaging. The shadows that bounce off the walls of the historic venue beautifully reflect the tensions and status shifts between characters. I would particularly like to compliment Kyle Stephens on his lighting design.
As the group moves through the space, the cast takes the audience not only on a historical journey, but an emotional one. Together, they perfectly capture the complex characters of this tale. Writer Kyla Lee Ward also acts as the guide throughout the performance. Her constant smile, playful physicality and carnival barker mannerisms provide key insights into events while perfectly reflecting the sheer spectacle the investigation becomes.

As lead investigator Frank Mathews, Mark Stokes is the perfect tortured detective, balancing his dedication to the truth with questionable tactics on a knife-edge. As the investigation proceeds, his desperation builds beautifully.
He is counterbalanced by Detective Leonard Allmond, portrayed by Sam Morell. Detective Allmond quickly becomes the ethical and moral backbone of the story. Morell’s powerful performance acts as a constant reminder of the human emotions underpinning the tragic events.
As underworld crook Patrick Brady, Jamie Sturgess commands every scene he is in. His performance reflects both a palpable viciousness and heart-wrenching softness depending on the circumstances.
Roslyn Hicks portrays Inie Holmes, the wife of Reginald Holmes. She beautifully represents the strength and quiet power that comes from unconditional love and dedication to her family.
Several cast members pull double duty in multiple roles, including Steve Maresca, performing as both victim Jim Smith and waterfront businessman Albert Stannard. Maresca perfectly portrays the desperation of Jim Smith as he is swept up by the events. This is powerfully contrasted with his chilling performance as the ominous Albert Stannard.
Barret Griffin plays the skittish Reginald Holmes in a way that provokes a surprising amount of empathy. He switches on a dime in his portrayal of Clive Evatt KC, approaching the case with a cool detachedness and lack of emotional connection that leaves the audience reeling.

Madison Chippendale wrenches on the audience’s heartstrings as Gladys Smith, the heartbroken and loyal widow of Jim Smith. Her physicality and mannerisms when playing Miss Allie, the owner of the cottage that becomes crucial in the investigation, are delightful to watch.
Karli Evans starts us down this dark path perfectly as Mrs Molloy, delivering the heartbreaking news to her daughter, Gladys. Later, she also portrays Grace Brady, the wife of Patrick Brady. Her powerful speech in support of her husband is a turning point, encouraging audiences to ponder who the true villain of the story is.
The Shark Arm Case is a fantastic show for families with older children interested in historical fiction and true crime. There are some scary themes and violent scenes that may be frightening to younger children. The occasionally unsettling nature of the story and venue makes the performance better suited to adults and teenagers.
The audience numbers were very well considered at the performance I attended and the space never felt overcrowded. The position of the audience in relation to the actors changes continuously as you move throughout the space. While there are times where sightlines are slightly blocked, depending where you sit, the immersive nature of the performance means you never feel you are missing out on any of the action.
For audience members requiring mobility assistance, the performers are very considerate of allowing ample time for people to move into the next room, accommodating needs with additional seating.
The Shark Arm Case pays wonderful homage to our fascination with the bizarre and macabre. The journey we are taken on encourages us to reflect on how the actions of one person can ruin so many lives. And in The Shark Arm Case, it is not necessarily the person we expect.
The Shark Arm Case by Deadhouse Productions runs to 30 August at the Justice and Police Museum, Albert Street Sydney NSW 2000.
Tickets are available here.
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