Review: The Moustrap at Theatre Royal Newcastle

The Mousetrap is a classic murder mystery written by the legendary playwright, Agatha Christie. An incredible feat of storytelling, the play takes audiences on a thrilling journey as they attempt to unravel the mystery of whodunit. 

The story takes place at Monkswell Manor, a guesthouse run by a young married couple. After an unexpected snowstorm forces two more guests to join them, strange occurrences begin happening. As the guests begin to suspect each one another of foul play, it becomes increasingly difficult to decipher who the murderer is.

The Mousetrap has delighted audiences around the world since it premiered in 1952. To this day, audiences are both delighted and horrified by the twists and turns of the story. The play keeps audiences guessing until its final moments, where the murderer is finally revealed.

In its six-decade run, The Mousetrap has stayed true to its original form. It is a classic which has been enjoyed by generations, with each new generation finding something unique in the story.

The set was focused around the living area of Monkswell Manor mansion, with huge wooden panelled walls. Characters came in and out, dependent on the focus of the conversation. Detailed in its appearance, it gave us the only setting for the play.

The cast were just wonderful, and we were taken in different directions of just why each may come under suspicion throughout. Each had their own backstory and history to bring to the group.

Todd Carty in the role of Major Metcalf, gave a sturdy performance as this army gentleman with a raspy voice. Laurence Pears and Joelle Dyson as Giles Ralston and Mollie Ralston respectfully are our proprietors who may have their own reasons individually to come under suspicion. Gweneth Strong as Mrs Boyle was our constant critic of the establishment, often expecting more than what was on offer and easy to dislike . Essie Barrow, youthful but deflective as Miss Casewell, Kieran Brown gave us some laughs as wannabe Casanova and the unexpected guest. Elliott Clay stood out with his energetic, at times hyperactive and slightly odd persona. Slightly unbalanced could he be the murderer? And lastly Joseph Reed, the inquisitive detective there to find out just who the would be murderer is!

The play uses humour brilliantly and inserts it into scenes with a skill. Often timing and mood help keep this play entertaining and flowing. As an audience member we were kept guessing right until the end and hear the gasp from the audience as we did, as the guilty person is revealed! Obviously I’m not able to tell you who it is, so you’ll have to come along and see it for yourself..

The Mousetrap is definitely worth seeing – a truly classic play, with timeless characters, involving suspense and plenty of laughter. It was a truly engaging experience. A perfectly crafted production and I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys theatre, or wants to witness an example of a classic murder mystery story done well.

The Mousetrap plays at Newcastle Theatre Royal from Mon 6 – Sat 11 Feb 2023. Tickets are priced from £15.00 and can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.