Genesian Theatre Sydney
A smooth realisation of a very clever play. Let’s Kill Agatha Christie, is very like one of those murder mystery games that people like to play at parties. A glamorous murder mystery writer, Prudence Sykes, Caitlin Clancy, not unlike the great Agatha Christie in appearance but certainly not her equal in talent, yearns for the same recognition. Just as Agatha Christie did, Prudence, decides to stage her own disappearance in order to gain attention from the press. Enter three guests. Each invited to spend the night. Each with a grudge against Prudence. What a perfect mystery it would be if one of them should take the blame for her sudden departure. In truth Prudence doesn’t like her guests anymore than they like her. Sir Frederick Belting, Theo Hatzistergos, is a pompous millionaire, John Hartley-Miles,Bryan Smith, is the kind of film star women swoon over, even though his career is in decline, and Marjorie Fielding, Natalie Reid, is a journalist who also has literary ambitions. All have had issues with Prudence Sykes in the past.
Played to the gallery, the characters could have added more supplementary actions and more asides, giving more dimension to their roles. Played for laughs the production seemed at times quite stilted. For example, an old manuscript subtly left out by Prudence for her guests to read, is picked up by Marjorie, who crosses the stage to open it. Just as she opens it she finds reference to Inspector Murray who has just entered. It would have been less contrived had she browsed the script earlier.
Still, despite these minor criticisms, Let’s Kill Agatha Christie, is a charming production. Gregory George has directed a very well paced play. Timing and little pieces of business, such as the constant tripping on the stairs, add to the fun. Overall, however, it is the servants who steal the show. Tombs and Gladys, in particular, played by Peter. J. Donnelly and Andrea Blight, light up the stage with their droll humour and dedication to Prudence Sykes, to each other and to cleaning up. Quite literally. Could it be that they too are in on the plot? Lots of clever lighting and sound effects give this production a touch of the classic horror mood. Tombs entrances and exits are remarkable. Harry Lewis as P.C. Crockett adds light comic relief with his refreshingly clueless young police officer. A contrast to the calculated actions of all the other characters. Who knows, maybe, Prudence Sykes really can give Agatha Christie a run for her money?
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