Photos by Jeffrey Schmidt
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
Adapted by Black Hackler from the novel by Agatha Christie
Directed by: Jeffrey Schmidt
Produced by: Theatre Three
Audience Rating: PG (depictions of death, suicide)
Running Time: 2.5 hours with 15-minute intermission
Accessible Seating: Available
Hearing Devices: Not Available
Sensory Friendly Showing: Not Available
ASL Showing: Not Available
Sound/Lighting Level: Comfortable
Audio/Visuals to Prepare For: darkness, lighting effects
Reviewed by Eddy Herring
If you are a fan of Agatha Christie murder mysteries, you are familiar with her signature writing style and the structure of her stories. I have seen, and performed in, many of Christie’s plays, and they all have a very similar presentation with period costumes and lots of British wit and flair. However, the adaptation currently running at Theatre Three is a surprise departure from the usual Christie fare. I found myself quite intrigued and fully invested in this fast-paced, non-traditional version of this classic.
I do enjoy seeing shows in the T3 space as there are really no bad seats in the house. The staging often utilizes all sides of the room with characters going in and out of the various entry points in the space. Such is the case here, with Director/Scenic Designer Jeffrey Schmidt creating a wonderfully minimal multi-level set design with an art deco feel. Cleverly selected clear acrylic furniture pieces were functional, easy to move, and blended exquisitely with the less-is-more aesthetic. I really appreciated the ease with which the actors could transition scenes and never stop or distract from the ongoing action. Notable additions were an oversized pendulum and the “mysterious man.” Overall, a lovely refresh to this sometimes-tired storyline.
Costumes by Jessie Wallace were uncomplicated and easy for the actors to transition from one role to the next. Lighting by Nicole Iannaccone and Sound by Noah Heller established an eerie and sometimes-haunting vibe with lighting effects and light background whispers. Choreographer Danielle Georgiou, PhD artfully crafted ensemble moments that added visual layers to their presence, and dialects were perfected by Jessica D. Turner, producing well-defined characters that were distinctly different.
Each performer played dual roles, except for Paul T. Taylor (Hercule Poirot) and John Flores (Dr. James Sheppard) who lead this stellar cast with ease and precision. Both actors are brilliantly expressive and engaging, leaning into the often-overlooked humor of their roles. I was particularly captivated by Taylor's Poirot, and Catherine D. DuBord (Caroline Sheppard and Miss Russell) who plays each role with masterful distinction. Her simple costume transitions and impressive vocal and physical variations felt as though Caroline and Russell were each played by a different person. Similarly, Laurie Carter Rose as Miss Gannett and Mrs. Ackroyd, beautifully shifted between characters with style and ease. Very strong performances from both ladies.
Rounding out the cast are Shawn Gann (Roger Ackroyd and Blunt), Christian R Black (Ralph and Raymond), Rowan Gilvie (Flora and Ursula), and Dylan Todd (Parker and Raglan). Each of these gifted actors delivered outstanding performances with high energy, quick costume changes and well-defined portrayals. This ensemble floated in and out of scenes with perfect timing and executed seemingly effortless scene changes, keeping the pace on point. The entire cast worked extremely well together, each complementing the other. Wonderful performances by all!
This is not the typical Agatha Christie murder mystery, and I enjoyed it immensely. Definitely a must see if you are looking for a fresh take on a timeless classic. The show runs through May 10 and tickets are available at theatre3dallas.com Don't miss it!
GO SEE THE SHOW!
Thank you!
Eddy Herring
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