Over 80 years after its initial publication, Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None is still sharp, slick, and chock full of suspense. It promises everything we have come to enjoy and admire from this seminal mystery writer. Following the 2023 production of The Mousetrap, the same production team delivers a show featuring some of Australia’s most captivating acting talent. Together, they have the audience on tenterhooks in a thrilling night at the theatre.
The play is infused with mystery and intrigue from its opening moments. We are introduced to a slew of characters who have all been invited to a mansion on Soldier Island by a mysterious couple named Mr and Mrs Owen. These characters include a doctor, a private investigator, a former governess, a retired World War I General, a retired judge, and two housekeepers to name a few.
The island is remote, and soon, the faceless host’s intentions unfold. A series of unfortunate events see the guests murdered until, as the title suggests, there were none. This all occurs in accordance with the Ten Little Soldier Boys rhyme plastered on the mansion’s wall.
The performances across the board are fantastically strong. An early standout is Peter O’Brien. His character William Henry Blore initially enters with a thick South African accent (no spoilers) and he handles the early comic relief in the piece brilliantly.
As Vera Claythorne, Mia Morrisey gives a masterful performance. Often acting as a conduit for the audience’s theories, but also at times, a key suspect (again, no spoilers!), Mia is incredibly captivating to watch and carries a powerful voice and presence throughout.
Having such fully-formed characters makes watching their interactions with one another a treat. Eden Falk’s Dr Armstrong provides plenty of levity and intrigue. Christen O’Leary’s portrayal of Mrs Rogers, especially her disdain for the young people of today (particularly when delivered to the upright Philip Lombard, played by Tom Stokes) is particularly amusing.
Nicholas Hammond, of The Sound of Music fame, gives a tender and enjoyable performance as General Mackenzie. He solidifies this likeable character as an audience favourite.
The set, designed by Dale Ferguson, is striking in its simplicity. It has some entertaining tricks up its sleeve, well utilised by Director Robyn Nevin’s intricate blocking. One of the key features is the ten little marble soldiers sitting on the coffee table in the middle of the living room.
Without giving too much away, the soldiers are moved and manipulated in ways that are so cleverly subtle. Audible gasps could be heard from the audience. It is a fantastically creative touch and adds to the intrigue as the show progresses.
And Then There Were None is a highly enjoyable night at the theatre. Even if you aren’t a true crime or murder mystery aficionado, there are some phenomenal performances on display from some of Australia’s most notable talent. It’s well worth heading along and immersing yourself in one of Agatha Christie’s greatest works.
And Then There Were None runs until 29 June at His Majesty’s Theatre 827 – 905 Hay Street Perth.
It then runs in Adelaide from 2 August on its final stop of the 2025 tour.
Tickets: https://andthentherewerenone.com.au/tickets/perth/
Website: https://andthentherewerenone.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/andthentherewerenoneau/
Photo credits: Jeff Busby
