Hall for Cornwall, Truro – until 15 November 2025
Reviewed by Kerry Gilbert
4****
‘A Charming and Classic Murder Mystery!’
The play follows Agatha Christie’s most successful character, detective Hercule Poirot (Mark Hadfield. Poirot is invited to be part of an expedition along the Nile River to return an ancient artefact. Wealthy Linnet Ridgeway (Libby Alexandra-Cooper) asks Poirot for help, as her honeymoon with Simon Doyle (Nye Occomore) is being disrupted by his ex-fiancée Jacqueline De Bellefort (Esme Hough) who, bitter at being rejected, is stalking the couple. Poirot refuses at first, but this does not matter as, once the steamer has set sail, Linnet is found shot to death by a pistol apparently owned by Jacqueline. Tensions rise as it’s revealed that many passengers had motives – jealousy, betrayal and greed. Poirot exposes the crime in classic Christie fashion, bringing justice to a carefully staged deception.
Director, Lucy Bailey did a splendid job of keeping the audience engaged as the show builds suspense and intrigue. She adds perfect timing to the plot twists so the audience can take them in and feel the shock of it all. A standout moment for me was when Poirot delivered his big ‘reveal’ of who the murderer was, and the characters reenacted the scenes seamlessly that Poirot was referring to.
Designer, Mike Britton’s elegant split level set design captures the luxury of the steamer in the 1930’s and realistically provides a means where Poirot can eavesdrop while the passengers on the lower level make incriminating remarks. It is the perfect backdrop consisting of a series of sliding venetian screens and doors and cruise ship railings, especially when moving it creates an immersive experience with smooth scene transitions. Lighting designer (Oliver Fenwick) has created a reflective atmosphere assisted by subdued lighting which moodily bounces shafts of light that glitter off sequin dresses and a golden sarcophagus.
Costume supervisor, Sarah Holland has created outfits for the show which are classy and elegant. The artistic Salome Otterbourne (Camilla Anvar) an artist with aspirations for the stage is gloriously flamboyant with costumes to match.
Ken Ludwig’s adaption trims the original story and has slipped in some humour which prevents the show taking itself too seriously. It is a charming and classic murder mystery, which makes excellent viewing.
Credit goes to Manuel Harlan for the fantastic production images.