Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap

I bet you didn't know that Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap is the world’s longest-running play. This West End production is said to be the genre-defining murder mystery from the best-selling novelist of all time. And it's currently on at the Alexandra Theatre Birmingham.

As news spreads of a murder in London, a group of seven strangers find themselves snowed in at a remote countryside guesthouse, named Monkwell Manor. When a police sergeant arrives, the guests discover – to their horror – that a killer is in their midst! But which one is the murderer, and who will be their next victim?

Featuring a star-studded cast including Todd Carty (EastEnders, The Bill), John Altman (EastEnders) and Gwyneth Strong (Only Fools and Horses, EastEnders). I would also like to extend a special well done to Elliot Clay, who played the role of Christopher Wren brilliantly. He was by far the most entertaining character and the audience was roaring with laughter and full of applause at his one-liners and well-executed physical comedy.

Unfortunately for me, I found the plot to be very slow and the whole of act one felt as if the pace was very lacklustre. Whilst there were some entertaining moments, the jokes became a bit repetitive, and some appeared to be lost on the audience. The show began to pick up a bit more during the second act. But, for me, it was the last 15 minutes that was captivating and full of suspense. I wonder if moving forward, it is this sense of urgency and tension that is required to make the whole show feel a bit more exciting. Because as a fan of Agatha Christie and the Mousetrap, I was a little disappointed and I do think that that was down to the execution of the show, I do believe that a punchier and sharper delivery would have helped.

I must say that the set design under the costume department captivated the essence of the time and the stage felt very grand and ornate. It also felt very fitting to have a snowy scene, so close to Christmas time approaching.

Once again, I would like to extend my thanks to the Alexandra Theatre for an incredible press night. The whole team work so hard behind the scenes to bring these events together. I'd like to mention the security, ushers, bar staff, press team, backstage crew, and anyone else that has a hand in working at the theatre. It is all very much appreciated.

Now celebrating 70 years, Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap has kept millions of people from every corner of the globe on the edge of their seats. So, could you be next? Well, head on over to the Alexandra Theatre Birmingham to find out. The Mousetrap runs until 5th November 2022. Tickets are available at the following link https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-mousetrap/the-alexandra-theatre-birmingham/