Theatre Review: Witness for the Prosecution
A Mermaids Production
31/10/23-01/11/23
Directed by: Eleanor Whorms
Written by: Agatha Christie
Review by Mariana Razina
If you're looking for a thrilling night out filled with suspense, drama, and a hefty dose of intrigue, look no further than Witness for the Prosecution. This gripping adaptation of Agatha Christie's classic mystery will have you on the edge of your seat, trying to unravel the truth in a courtroom filled with twists, turns, and captivating characters.
The standout feature of this production is the incredible teamwork that went into making it a reality. From the moment you spot the intriguing poster with a fingerprint concealing the face of the witness, you'll realise the dedication of the cast and crew to create an immersive experience. Watching a team of 10 individuals quietly transform Sir Wilfrid's living room into a convincing courtroom is a testament to the collective effort behind the scenes.
The set design is another feather in the cap of this production. Under the skilled eye of the set designer (Cara Scott) the play uses the Byre's space brilliantly, delivering a courtroom that feels entirely authentic. The living room, on the other hand, exudes cosiness and intimacy, making it an ideal setting for the unfolding drama. The courtroom scenes, with their multifaceted action, draw you into the heart of the trial, allowing you to witness the proceedings from a front-row seat.
But what truly elevates this production are the secondary characters. The Secretary (Helena Rothery) and the Butler (Matthew Colquhuon) provide much-needed comic relief, while the various witnesses add depth and intrigue to the story. While the defence (Mackenzie Galbraith), prosecution (Max Fryer), and Judge (Buster Ratcliffe van der Geest) undoubtedly dominate the courtroom, it's a delight to observe how the rest of the cast reacts to each word spoken, mirroring the real world's dynamic.
As the audience, you are presented with limited evidence, much like a real jury, forcing you to decide who to trust based on what you witness in the courtroom. The play masterfully leads you through Agatha Christie's devious twists and turns, making you feel as though you hold the fate of the accused in your hands. You do not immediately realise that there is no fourth wall, and you have been a jury member all along, but as the play progresses, you realise your own importance as a participant as well as an observer.
The main characters' performances are highly memorable. Callum Wardman-Browne shines as Leonard Vole, the charming and seemingly innocent accused. Callum deftly navigates the complex emotions and inner turmoil that Leonard experiences as he fights to clear his name. Romaine (Lexie Dykes) is a character that keeps you guessing with her enigmatic nature, and Lexie does a fantastic job bringing her duplicitous personality to life. Her interactions with the other characters add an extra layer of suspense.
Mackenzie Galbraith brings the once-brilliant but now a struggling defence attorney, Sir Wilfrid Robarts, to life with conviction. Wilfrid has the experience but could be described as losing his grip sometimes and Mackenzie portrays it with accuracy and compassion. Max Fryer portrays the ambitious and ruthless prosecutor, Mr. Myers, with impressive intensity, creating a formidable adversary for Sir Wilfrid. The cast's exceptional performances contribute to the overall tension and drama, keeping you guessing until the final verdict.
The attention to detail in the costumes is praiseworthy, as each character's attire helps to express their personality and motives. The costumes are not just clothing; they are essential tools for conveying subtleties about the characters, making them an integral part of the storytelling.
Moreover, the marketing for the show is a special treat in itself. The creative marketing campaign, managed by Amelia Thompson, complete with intriguing reveals, striking graphics, and opportunities for audience engagement, made the lead-up to the premiere truly exciting. The decision to have the premiere on Halloween night, with an invitation for the audience to attend in costumes, added a fun and interactive element to the experience, and the best costume announcement surely added an extra layer of excitement.
In conclusion, the student production of "Witness for the Prosecution" is exciting and memorable. With its exceptional teamwork, brilliant set design, captivating characters, outstanding performances, and attention to costume detail, this adaptation of Agatha Christie's classic is an enthralling and immersive experience that will leave you pondering the truth long after the final gavel falls. Don't miss your chance to be a part of the jury and experience the thrill of the courtroom drama firsthand.
