Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Cracked - Review

A change of wind is blowing through the land at the Alexandra Theatre Birmingham. It can only mean that Agatha Christie returns with The Mirror Crack’d.

This is a thrilling new adaptation by Rachel Wagstaff, based on Agatha Christie’s famous novel. With such rich material already Wagstaff manages to create a play that has the audience on the edge of their seats throughout. Director Phillip Franks has managed to add even more depth of emotion to this tale of deceit and secrecy. I’m an avid Agatha Christie fan, and my expectations were surpassed in this adaptation. This production boasts a very famous cast, with Susie Blake starring as Miss Marple who does a wonderful job at recreating a much-beloved character, alongside Sophie Ward and Joe McFadden.

The story sees the sleuthing Miss Marple confined to a chair after an unfortunate accident. Of course, her thoughts are interrupted by the impending death of the local busybody, Heather Leigh. But it seems there is more to this murder than meets the eye and soon everything begins to unravel. It would seem everybody is a suspect, or are they?

I can't say much more without spoiling the plot, so let me tell you about the fantastic set design and timely details. Instantly, I feel as though I've been transported into Miss Marple’s living room. The attention to detail is second to none, and the room is ornately furnished with trinkets you'd imagine of a sweet, old lady. A perspex-style box that revolves 360 degrees is the main piece of the set from which all the action unfolds. Although there are many scene changes it's incredible that this is still the same stage as there is a fluidity to the change in props and background.

The quality of the acting is simply sublime by the entire cast, and I wholeheartedly mean that. Their use of freeze frames helps tell the story, in all its abridged versions. There are many moments of humour too, with many of the cast having comedic one-liners. The quality of this script and the direction given means that this play has both light and shade.

If you're looking for a thrilling night out or you’re a murder mystery fanatic, The Mirror Crack’d offers up something for all. There's always a shock just around the corner, it will have you in suspense. So, if you fancy playing detective and trying to catch the killer then book your tickets.

The Mirror Crack’d is on at the Alexandra Theatre Birmingham until Saturday 18th February. Tickets are available at the following link.

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-mirror-crackd/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham/