And Then There Were None Review |
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The anticipation spilled over into a packed theatre, and as we were seated, the mood was immediately set, as the auditorium was filled with 1920’s gramophone music, and the curtain presented an image of a stately residence. The curtain rises and we are presented with a stunningly detailed Art Deco style set and are instantly transported back to the extravagant era in which the play takes place. The lighting was complementary and was used to add ambience to the set as well as suggest the time of day or night. Sound was tastefully used throughout the production to add to the mood and placement of the scenes. The lines were well delivered, but at times a little more clarity would have assisted in maintaining the complex storyline. Certain snippets of information were lost through the over zelous delivery of lines, but on the whole this was not an issue. The play takes place over three days and two nights and follows the journey of ten unsuspecting characters with dark secrets lurking in their past. The first half, set over two acts, (with a brief scene change in between) begins to set the scene for a house party, ten unsuspecting guests all lured to an island for the weekend (nothing suspicious there…). During the preparations the host is detained in London and will not arrive until the following day. The guests mingle and introductions are made, the evening continues until a mysterious gramophone record is played. Accusations are made and fiercely denied, but conscience plays a big part in the conviction of these souls. After intermission, the second half of the play (acts 3&4) picks up the pace as the characters become more and more distant, and panic sets in. The question is who did it? Was it one of them? Or are they the victims of a cruel voyeuristic plot to enforce justice where justice missed out? An intricately woven storyline, brilliantly executed by the ‘Agatha Christie Theatre Company’ Notable performances include Gerald Harper as Sir Lawrence Wargrave, Alex Ferns as Captain Philip Lombard and Chloe Newsome as Vera Claythorne. Playing until the 2nd of February at Milton Keynes Theatre, a great night out and for any Agatha Christie fans or anyone that loves a good mystery, this is one not to miss. Written By Leon Templar |