Steven Dietz’s adaptation of Murder on the Links is a fresh, contemporary take on the classic Agatha Christie murder mystery. Vertigo Theatre’s production is a good mix of humour and talent, but the storyline is convoluted and confusing. What saves this play from chaos is a cast that plays up comedy just right and a narrative that mostly holds together, making this night out at the theatre a great escape from the cold.
The story centres around the famous detective Hercule Poirot (Trevor Rueger) and Captain Hastings (Javelin Laurence). The rest of the cast includes Meg Farhall, Graham Percy, Heidi Damayo and Todd Houseman. Poirot and Hastings travel to northern France to meet Paul Renauld, who has asked for help. But when they get there, they discover that Renauld is dead. This launches an investigation with many suspects including Renauld’s wife, Eloise (Farhall), his son Jack (Houseman) and the mysterious Cinderella (Damayo).
Rueger’s Poirot is solid and has good chemistry as a duo with Laurence. Farhall is fabulous and funny in all the roles that she plays. Percy always has a way of working his charm into all his roles and it’s refreshing to see Damayo and Houseman make their debuts. Houseman shows off his physical comedic chops and Damayo illustrates her skills in comedic crying.
The mystery is resolved in the end, but the audience might find itself lost, even with a plot re-enactment depicted with the assistance of bowling pins. Characters are outfitted in costumes designed by Jolane Houle and they help to add humour to the production. Set Designer Julia Kim sets up a simple design on wheels that can be moved on and off stage. Lighting design by Katheryn Smith and sound design by Tori Morrison round out the production, adding to the ambiance on stage.
This adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel is fresh and fun, but it isn’t a dazzling theatrical experience. While it may not be a ground-breaking production, it keeps you engaged with its clever twists and moments of levity.
Vertigo Theatre’s production of Murder on the Links has been extended and runs until December 21st. More information is available online.
Photo Credit: Javelin Laurence, Todd Houseman, Trevor Rueger, Graham Percy, Fifth Wall Media