Review by Samantha Robison
Photo by John Olson
Christopher Wren (a character in The Mousetrap, not the architect) really says it best: “It’s so deliciously macabre!” Agatha Christie’s own words are truly the best description of the classic whodunnit. The Mousetrap may be the longest-running play of all time, yet somehow I’ve managed to go four decades without seeing a live production of it. I’m so pleased to have experienced the show in the intimate confines of Citadel Theatre. The venue is practically tailor-made for this production; and the changing of the seasons is the ideal time to cozy up with this melodramatic classic, directed by Scott Westerman.
While I have no intentions of revealing plot secrets here (as audience members are dutifully sworn to the utmost secrecy before the commencement of the show), I would be remiss to not offer a mild warning of potential spoilers. I’m inclined to begin at the end and offer my conclusion before my assessment.
Like most of us, the pandemic sparked new hobbies & interests in my life. A friend turned me onto true crime podcasts. I’ve never had a stomach for gory movie scenes, but have always been attracted to the thrill of a good murder mystery. Podcasts were a fabulous marriage of theatre and documentary for me, particularly the well-produced shows whose hosts are scintillating storytellers. I couldn’t help but think, as Mousetrap clipped on, how the hoards of self-proclaimed “crime junkies” would absolutely eat up this production. This is your moment, fellow podcast-lovers, to put down the ear buds and allow your eyes to enjoy the theatrical feast.
I insist that all lovers of melodrama & mystery ensure that they see this production! Those “in the know” who have guarded the secret with pride, and those who have yet to join the club, will equally love Westerman’s showpiece. He beautifully weaves in modern technology to add a breath of 21st century air, while maintaining incredible reverence to Christie’s timeless work.
And now, friend, it is up to you. Read on for more thoughts on the production. Or pause now to avoid any lurking plot clues (returning later, of course, after you’ve attended the show).
Each and every cast member in Citadel’s production is an impeccable storyteller. With just the right amount of melodramatic flourish, it’s like watching a live game of CLUE. Not surprising, considering the game and movie were inspired by Christie’s work. The pace of the action is riveting. Each new guest who checks in, skis in, or stumbles in by happenstance to Monkswell Manor is a new card being dealt to the audience, tasking them to untangle a web of mystery.
The owners of Monkswell Manor, Mr. and Mrs. Ralston (Jack Sharkey and Mary Margaret McCormack) make their debut as first-time hosts in the middle of a horrific winter blizzard. They are a delightfully eager English couple, yet wildly unprepared for the spectrum of personalities that are about to descend on their guest house. Sharkey and McCormack are incredibly gifted in this genre. This is McCormack’s fourth murder mystery. Her blood-curdling scream that pierced a sudden blackout at a pivotal plot moment easily holds up alongside a Hitchcock leading lady.
Each character is brilliantly cast. I can’t imagine a more obdurate Mrs. Boyle than that of Kristie Berger. Her steely demeanor is in stark & precise contrast to that of Christopher Wren, played brilliantly by Jesús Barajas. Although Barajas’ accent was a bit muddled at the onset, he settled into his speech pattern and quickly became a scene-stealer among a wonderfully strong cast. Reginald Hemphill’s cartoonish go as Mr. Paravicini (the foreigner) was a delightful injection of humor. His exaggerated expression and cadence gives the audience permission to laugh even after the discovery of a dead guest right on the parlor floor.
All of the visual components tie in beautifully in this production. Catalina Niño’s set design is cohesive and warm, pairing exquisitely with Danielle Reinhardt’s thoughtful costume design. Ian Merritt’s cinematography adds a clever illusion of depth and extension to the modest stage. The mirror effect is mesmerizing & imaginative. The responsibility of coordination by the actor to perfectly reflect the video is very impressive. The entire show is a bloody good time! Check in for a couple of hours at Monkswell Manor and see who lives to tell the tale.
The Mousetrap is now playing at Citadel Theatre in the west campus of the Lake Forest School District, 300 S. Waukegan Rd in Lake Forest through October 15.. Performance times vary; check the website at Citadel Theatre. Find more information about current plays on our Current Shows page and at theatreinchicago.com