And Then There Were None

I am an Agatha Christie fan, which is just as well as this was the third one I have seen in seven days!   I am not complaining, I really enjoy these plays even when I do know the ending.  In this instance it was an exceptional production and a fitting end to this week’s Agatha Christie feast.

Director Nicola Gilbert has done a superb job, the misdirection throughout the play was excellent and I am sure that the audience did not see any of the tricks to remove the soldiers evidenced by their reaction when each missing one was brought to our attention.

Every member of the cast was excellent, I particularly liked the cameo from Simon Gilbert as Fred Narracott, he wasn’t on for long, but he certainly created a good impression.  That doesn’t take anything away from all the other members of the cast all of whom created excellent characters.  May I also say what a pleasure it was to hear all the dialogue even though no-one was mic’d.  It is such a joy to watch good actors project well, so we got every clue and nuance in the play. 

I will list the cast, particularly because they were all so good, so in order of appearance;   Emma Galley (Ethel Rogers) Simon Gilbert (Fred Narracott) Andrew Grey (Thomas Rogers) Lee Johnson (Philip Lombard) Lucy Connor (Vera Claythorne) Glen Hall (Anthony Marston) Ray Tempesta (William Blore) Paul Minett (General John Mackenzie) Amanda Howell (Emily Brent) Peter Howell (Sir Lawrence Wargrave) and Robin Taylor (Dr Edward Armstrong).  My congratulations to all of you for your excellent characterisations.

The scenery was superb, testament to the hard work from everyone and a credit to designer Simon Gilbert.  The costumes were also excellent, beautifully presented and worn exactly as the period required.  There was great attention to detail, in accessories etc.  The lighting worked well, and the storm was very atmospheric.

The main comment I want to make is that I, as a member of the audience, felt totally engrossed in the plot.   This is so important when presenting Murder Mysteries and Thrillers.  The play was well paced and even bringing in the tabs for the scene changes did not detract from the pace.

My thanks to the Front of House Manager, Janet Nightingale, who looked after me so well.  I enjoyed my night out in Sheringham and look forward to more.

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