REVIEW: MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS - A MEMORABLE JOURNEY OF THRILLS AND LAUGHTER

Murder Mystery PlaysReviewsTheatre Aquarius

Mar 8

Fans of murder mysteries, it is time to climb aboard: Theatre Aquarius is going to take you on a memorable journey of thrills and laughter in Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express.

Murder on the Orient Express is heralded as one of author Agatha Christie’s greatest literary achievements and the twist in this particular narrative is often sited as one of her best. The story focuses on Detective Hercule Poirot who finds himself aboard the Orient Express when an unlikeable wealthy American is murdered.

Poirot (a brilliant, committed performance from Daniel Kash) is joined on his travels by other oddly suspicious individuals, including the hilariously obnoxious American husband-hunter Mrs. Hubbard (a standout performance from Nora McLellan), the haughty Russian Princess Dragomiroff (a regal Pamela Mala Sinha), and Countess Andrenyi (a captivating Kristen Peace). The other passengers board the train and several comment on Poirot’s appearance and mannerisms, frequently forgetting (or not caring) that he is, in fact, not French but Belgian. That evening, pushy Samuel Ratchett (Martin Happer), who Poirot almost immediately dislikes, tries to recruit Poirot’s help while onboard which jolts the plot into motion. With his clever eye and keen instincts, Poirot uncovers the truth behind the murder and how it connects to those onboard the Orient Express.

There’s an abundance of talent and charm in this production. The cast as an ensemble have impeccable timing with rapid fire retorts, hilarious interjections, deep commitment to the story and their characters and are skilled at keeping the audience invested as we anticipate the next reveal. There’s plenty of expertly delivered comedic moments which are delightfully fun (and often surprising) in a murder mystery, a sentiment confirmed by the audience’s laughter throughout the performance.

*The cast of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express*
*Photography by: Dahlia Katz*

Brandon Kleiman’s set design certainly wowed the Sunday matinee audience with audible gasps of awe and delight watching the revolving set. This design also allows the cast and crew to perform rapid transitions, brilliantly timed with the sound and lighting design creating some impressive moments on stage. Kleiman uses rich blue velvets and damask against the stunning woodwork of the train cars and cabins giving it a luxurious but also wintery feel. The beautiful art deco style etchings on the wings of the theatre really enhanced the 1930’s period as well. These stylings are further incorporated into Kleiman’s gorgeous costumes which help compliment the show’s overall aesthetic.

*Birgitte Solem and Pamela Mala Sinha*
*Photography by Dahlia Katz*

Set design and acting are both worthy of all the praise here but what also deeply impressed me was Ken Ludwig’s script adaptation of the story. Ludwig has carefully crafted the introduction of Poirot and quickly meeting the quirky cast of characters to be established in the first act. Hercule Poirot’s investigation of the murder during these acts reminds the audience that this is not a Netflix original. You must pay attention if you have any hope to meet Poirot at his next clue or suspicion. Clues and expositions fly at the audience who are forced to hurriedly piece together a suspect before the reveal at the climax. It’s sharp, witty writing and the chaos of it all is what separates it from the original source material. Agatha Christie enthusiasts may shirk at how quick the story progresses but Ludwig’s script is extremely well-paced with excellent comedic moments and maintains its high level of intrigue and engagement throughout.

Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express is a solid murder mystery tale that has been impeccably staged by director Morris Panych and expertly performed by entire cast and crew at Theatre Aquarius. It’s funny, mysterious, and murderous fun. Get aboard the Orient Express, don’t miss this one.

ORIENT EXPRESS TICKETS