The cast of THE MOUSETRAP 70th Anniversary Tour. Photo Credit: Matt Crockett
Successfully blending comedy and mystery, Agatha Christie’s THE MOUSETRAP continues to entertain, thanks to its impressive set, talented cast, and skilfully written plot.
It’s been a big week for the creative team behind Agatha Christie’s THE MOUSETRAP. After celebrating 70 glorious years in London’s West End, the world’s longest-running play is finally heading to Broadway… but not before it gains a few more fans on its latest anniversary UK tour.
Set in the 1950s, THE MOUSETRAP tells the story of seven strangers who find themselves snowed in at a remote countryside guesthouse. A radio news bulletin warns that a murderer is on the loose, and when a police sergeant arrives, the guests soon discover that the killer is in their midst. One by one, the suspicious characters reveal their sordid pasts, but which one is the murderer and who will be their next victim?
Gwyneth Strong as Mrs. Boyle in THE MOUSETRAP. Photo Credit: Matt Crockett
Instantly drawing you into its superb mansion set with its panelled walls, multiple entrances and exits and impressive attention to detail, it’s easy to see why THE MOUSETRAP remains one of the best plays of its genre. Skilfully written by the “queen of crime”, the play successfully blends comedy and mystery with plenty of red herrings, false trails and a cast of fully fleshed-out characters, all adding to the evening’s suspense and entertainment.
The small but talented cast occupies the stage most of the time. The ‘star’ performances come from ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES’ Gwyneth Strong, who plays the role of the cantankerous Mrs Boyle to perfection, nit-picking at every opportunity to become the character we all love to hate. EASTENDERS’ John Altman also entertains as Mr Paravicini, even if his attempt at an Italian accent doesn’t always pull off.
John Altman as Mr. Paravicini in THE MOUSETRAP. Photo Credit by Matt Crockett
Elsewhere, Essie Barrow is strong in the role of Miss Casewell, as is Joelle Dyson as Mollie Ralston, who showcases her acting abilities with ease. Understudy Jack Elliot also deserves mention for his marvellous performance as Sergeant Trotter, driving the action whenever he is onstage.
But the real star of the show is Elliot Clay as young architect Christopher Wren. Clay brings the complexities of the character to life with his excellent comic timing and endearing energy, lightening the mood throughout the night.
For the most part, THE MOUSETRAP runs at a fast pace, directed with assuredness by Ian Talbot and Denise Silvey, although when it does come, the ending feels a little rushed and is finished off a little too neatly in a few minutes of comedic relief.
That said, when the final reveal happens, it is both surprising and satisfying, making for an entertaining gasp from the audience and a promise that they won’t reveal ‘whodunnit’ to preserve the show’s legacy for future audiences.
If you love a witty tale of murder and intrigue, then Agatha Christie’s THE MOUSETRAP won’t disappoint.
Agatha Christie’s THE MOUSETRAP – Opera House, Manchester until 3 December 2022
Donna is the Founder and Editor of Frankly, My Dear UK. By day, she works as a digital marketing specialist, by night she reviews film, theatre and music for a wide range of publications including WhatsonStage and The Reviews Hub. Loves Formula 1, prosecco and life.
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