The Mirror Crack'd

On arrival at the Grange Playhouse, the production had attracted a full and enthusiastic audience. This popular Agatha Christie Whodunnit lived up to expectations too, reflecting the strong direction and high overall quality of the play. Theingenious split stage setting contrasted Miss Marple’s cosy living room with Gossington Hall and the film studio, allowing smooth transitions, freeze frames and effective flashbacks during the party scenes. Chris Waters, the director made constant use of fragmented flashbacks with the same scenes played several times from different points of view.This presented new angles for the audience as the mystery unravelled, allowing us to build up an understanding of each character’s story. The direction was crafted effectively to keep the audience engaged, allowing the tension to build steadily without feeling rushed. Stan Vigurs' lighting highlighted key stage areas, while the sound design featured familiar 'murder mystery' tunes between scenes, which added to the atmosphere.  Costumes were most precise and fitting for the characters. Chris skilfully created a drama through cross-cutting between crucial scenes. Tension rose when a spotlight,a murder attempt, unexpectantly crashed from above with a loud thud, narrowly missing Marina.

The setting of the play is St Mary Mead, where Marina Gregg (Tina Williams), a former Hollywood actress, has relocated to Gossington Hall with her husband, the film director Jason Rudd (Carl Horton). While at a party, given by Marina, a death occurs. Heather Leigh (Amanda Glover) a was poisonedwhen drinking from a Strawberry Daiqui at the party after meeting the star. Miss Marple (Sam Allen), despite her sprained ankle, joins Chief Inspector Craddock (Chris Lambeth) to identify the murderer, convinced that Marina Gregg was the intended target. Craddock tries to stop Miss Marple getting involved but is unsuccessful. She predominantly remains seated in many scenes, attentively listening as other characters recount events; when she does move, she walks slowly with the aid of a cane. There is a lot of explaining of the events that have happened in the past as Miss Marple goes about her investigation.

Sam Allen gave an outstanding performance as the keen-witted Miss Marple, demonstrating a perfect fit for the character. She was convincing in appearance and captivated audiences with an authentic, compelling performance. Sheencapsulated the intelligence, wit and wisdom of the character perfectly. Sam’s Miss Marple endeared her character to the audience. She was on stage for most of the time and maintained her quiet authority and stage presence. Tina Williams was utterly convincing as the embittered MarinaGregg. Tina portrayed a multifaceted character with undeniable star power, displaying glamour through her gestures while maintaining a subtle, restrained emotional presence. Her character oozed with the glamour of a film starwith underlying fragility. Tina seemed to glide onto the stage with panache and poised like a goddess on the chaise longueto great effect. Rosie Rimmer was engaging as Cherry Baker, Miss Marple’s home help, portraying her as relatable and pleasant, though sometimes her voice was a bit quiet in dialogue.  Chris Lambeth maintained a professional demeanour in his role as Chief Inspector, composed in all interactions with Miss Marple. Whilst he was sometimes visibly irritated by her, his character treated her with respectrather than outrage. Amanda Glover played Heather flawlessly, capturing the essence of a star-struck fan. She was suitably bright and cheerful and delivered the devastating revelation about the measles as if it was a sweet memory.Robert Onions brought humour to his role as her husband Cyril who reacted to his chatty wife with tired patience. Carl Horton embraced his position confidently, portraying a Hollywood director with bold impatience. His manner toward Marina was gentle and comforting, as his voice soothed and reassured her. Carl too demonstrated his character’svulnerability excellently, demonstrating moments of tensionand stress when he struggled to keep it all together. Dolly Bantry, a friend of Miss Marple, was portrayed by Sarah Mason who delivered an engaging performance characterised by strong expression. Lola Brewster was played by Abby Leigh Simpson with appropriate flamboyance and confidence.Ray Lawrence as Guiseppe Renzo and Kit Vance as Ella Zielinsky, played the Hollywood couple’s employees with credibility and charm.

The cast delivered powerful performances, and the captivating plot delved into themes such as obsession, illusion, and the enduring effects of past trauma. These elements were thoughtfully revealed through Miss Marple's keen observations. Congratulations to all the cast and crew

Ann Escritt – Regional Representative district 7

I am always delighted to visit the Grange Theatre in Walsall for two reasons. Firstly, the venue itself is charming, and everyone receives a warm welcome. Even more so, however, is the consistently high quality of the productions I have witnessed.

I attended a different performance to Ann, our Regional Representative, but having read her show report, it is clear thestandard I experienced was maintained throughout the run.

I fully agree with Ann’s comments regarding both the set and the acting. Sadly, I missed many of the cast after the performance, as I would have very much liked to congratulate them personally—especially Sam Allen for her amazing and spellbinding portrayal of Miss Marple, alongside Tina Williams as Marina Gregg.

My sincere congratulations to all involved. I very much look forward to seeing The Odd Couple (female version) in May 2026.

Andy Brown – Regional Councillor NODA West Midlands

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