Before getting into the show and its highlights, this is a spoiler-free review, so rest-assured, if you’re yet to see this fantastic murder mystery…our lips are sealed, and if you do happen to know… then you know.
Celebrating its 70th anniversary of historic performances and its accolade as the world’s longest-running play, The Mousetrap certainly contains all the very best ingredients of a detective crime mystery. Set in a traditional old, remote guest house on a cold winter’s evening, the production lays the foundations of the mystery with the arrival of seven strangers and nowhere for them to go.
Bringing the environment to life, was an impressive stage set which included visible doors and passageways, and a large window pane with visible falling snow. The latter of which, was the perfect touch to set the wintry tone of Christie’s murder mystery.
Also significant to the production on numerous occasions, is the prominent old-fashioned style radio that blares out the infamous murder broadcast to begin the play (supposedly the original recording used since the very first production of The Mousetrap and thereafter too!) In addition, the use of the repeated ‘Three Blind Mice’ nursery rhyme piano tune adds further to the eeriness of the unfolding plot.
This particular touring production of The Mousetrap had a fantastic cast, notably featuring Only Fools and Horses star, Gwyneth Strong who plays the mean Mrs Boyle. Kieran Brown’s performance as Mr Paravicini also must be noted, his comedy brought a sense of ease to the audience amongst the tension. And, Elliot Clay, as the eccentric Christopher Wren also played his role particularly convincingly!
Perhaps one of the most lingering highlights in our minds, however is the delightful ending of Christie’s play. Following the revealing of the murderer, the actors take their bow and to our surprise, step out of character to ask the spectators to keep the ultimate secret- a binding secret, that we, and audiences of generations to come will most certainly keep locked in our hearts.
For more information on the programme of upcoming shows at the Grand Opera House, please visitwww.atgtickets.com/venues/grand-opera-house-york.
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