Agatha Christie’s legendary Murder on the Orient Express has found a new life on stage at The Lowry, in this captivating adaptation by Ken Ludwig. Directed by Lucy Bailey, this UK tour promises a dynamic and fresh take on one of Christie’s most famous works. With Michael Maloney stepping into the role of the beloved Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, this production strikes the perfect balance between classic suspense and innovative staging. For both long-time Christie enthusiasts and newcomers, this show is a must-see.
Set in 1934, the play follows the renowned detective Hercule Poirot as he boards the luxurious Orient Express on what is supposed to be a restful journey. However, when American tycoon Samuel Ratchett is found murdered in his locked compartment, the holiday is cut short, and Poirot must unravel a web of secrets among the train’s diverse passengers. Trapped by a snowdrift in Yugoslavia, Poirot has limited time to piece together the clues before the train resumes its journey. The production faithfully maintains the tension and intrigue of Christie’s original tale, all while building to the famous twist ending that leaves the audience utterly captivated.
The set design, courtesy of Mike Britton, is nothing short of brilliant. The intricate train compartments cleverly shift and rotate to give the audience multiple perspectives of the action. The sense of movement, even when the train is at a standstill, is conveyed expertly through revolving carriages and dramatic lighting. A large overhead screen enhances the experience, projecting eerie snowstorms and shadowy clues that add a cinematic quality to the production. The lighting subtly adjusts to heighten the suspense, while Mic Pool’s atmospheric sound design and music box melodies underline the dark undercurrents of the story.
Sarah Holland’s period-accurate costumes transport the audience to the glamorous 1930s, with each character’s outfit reflecting their personality and status. From the dapper detective to the aristocratic passengers, every costume choice is a delight, contributing to the authenticity of the setting
Michael Maloney shines as Hercule Poirot, delivering a layered performance that captures both the detective’s sharp wit and emotional depth. His portrayal manages to stand apart from previous film and television versions, offering a Poirot who is methodical, humorous, and, in moments of revelation, genuinely conflicted. Maloney’s command of the stage and his impeccable accent make him the perfect anchor for the production.
The ensemble cast is equally impressive, with each actor adding depth to their character. Christine Kavanagh stands out as the flamboyant Helen Hubbard, delivering comic relief with perfect timing. Rebecca Charles as the devout Greta Ohlsson brings a quiet intensity to the role, while Simon Cotton, despite his brief appearance as Samuel Ratchett, leaves a lasting impression as the story’s ill-fated victim. The entire cast works together seamlessly, portraying a collection of multi-national, multi-layered characters whose secrets keep the audience on edge until the very end.
Murder on the Orient Express is a triumph of stagecraft, performance, and storytelling. Lucy Bailey’s direction breathes new life into Christie’s classic, creating a production that feels both timeless and fresh. The set design and technical elements elevate the show to cinematic heights, while Michael Maloney’s Poirot is nothing short of captivating. Whether you are a Christie aficionado or discovering this mystery for the first time, this stylish and suspenseful adaptation will keep you hooked until the very end, it is a five-star experience you won’t want to miss. Book your tickets and prepare for a thrilling ride!
Murder on the Orient Express is at The Lowry until Saturday 14th September 2024, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - The Lowry
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review
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