by Wes Abney
Staff Writer

Whether as a passing thought or a serious intention, everyone has thought about it. Even for a fleeting moment, on the tip of the conscious, murder captivates and intrigues the human mind.

With serious content and a wicked black humor outlook, the Seattle Repertory Theatre’s “Murderers” offers a different look at the faces behind the crime.

As with all opening night premiers, tension and intrigue dominated the theater audience on all levels. From the opening scene with the admission of guilt and of crimes committed, there was no denying the electric connection between the actors and the audience.

Composed of three separate monologues, the direct address of the actors to viewers takes down the separation between the characters and the audience. Instantly, the play draws you into the minds of three murders and the depraved humor that comes with this lifestyle.

You see, inside Riddle Key Retirement Community, everyone is waiting to die. It is just a matter of time and how one passes away. Within the world of perfectly manicured lawns, golf carts and social security wealth, there exists murderers. These residents are ready to tell all.

The three characters all have one thing in common: they are all killers. It is not the facts that are in question, but the great question of why. What leads a person to commit this taboo can be undeniably insane, and in the case of “Murderers,” absolutely hilarious.

The play was written by Jeffrey Hatcher and directed by Seattle’s own Steven Dietz. The actors who performed were Sarah Rudinoff, Mark Anders and Joan Porter Hollander.

“Murderers” will be playing at the Seattle Repertory Theatre through November 10.

Jeffrey Hatcher’s Murderers. Directed by Steven Dietz. Plays in the Leo K. Theatre through November 4, 2007.