Whodunnit? The Mousetrap, by Agatha Christie, is the world’s longest continuously running play at over 60 years! It’s now playing at The Gladstone Theatre until April 29, presented by Phoenix Players, a community theatre company that’s been providing Ottawa with affordable high-quality theatre since 2001.
The Mousetrap strands seven strangers at Monkswell Manor during a blizzard. But a police sergeant unexpectedly arrives, worried that a murderer-at-large is among the guests of the Manor. Before he can investigate, one of the guests is killed, starting an investigation into the lives and histories of everyone there. One of them is the killer, and one of them could be the next victim. Will the police be able to solve the case before another “mouse” falls?
The set. Photo by Sonya Gankina.
When I first saw the run time was 2.5 hours, I was… slightly concerned. The opening night was set for Friday at 7:30pm (all evening performances run at 7:30, while matinees are at 2:30pm). But I got over myself and ordered a Coke for a little caffeine boost from the ever-so-kind barkeeps at The Gladstone. By the way, drinks are more affordable at the theatre bar than anywhere else I’ve noticed recently—and you can bring them into the theatre!
I’m a huge Christie fan. I’ve seen every episode of David Suchet’s Poirot multiple times over. And while The Mousetrap doesn’t feature the iconic detective, it has all the makings of a classic Christie piece—wildly different characters, comedy, and, of course, a huge twist (or three). Phoenix Players delivered on all counts beautifully.
I didn’t even notice the 2.5-hour run time; in fact, I didn’t want the play to end! It was incredibly engaging; the characters all delivered an active stage presence, and their designated traits and mannerisms “played together” well, creating a dynamic interactive atmosphere. I found some accents a bit geographically confusing, also coming in and out of use, and wished I had subtitles (theatre technological advancement idea?). I always wish the actors would wear microphones or enunciate more (and I was in the front few rows) as sometimes it’s tough to make out the words with both volume and accents.
While the murder mystery keeps everyone suspicious until the very end and features a thoroughly entertaining and dramatic murder (screaming included), the play is family-friendly and everyone in the audience got a great laugh throughout (and it was a full house on opening night!).
Did you know The Mousetrap was originally written as a specially requested broadcast for the late Queen Mary’s 80th birthday? According to the official London Mousetrap Twitter account, it was originally published as a short story before becoming a play.
The Mousetrap runs at The Gladstone until April 29th. Tickets are $27 for adults, $24 for seniors, artists, and students. Performance time is 2.5 hours and includes intermission. The Gladstone is accessible to wheelchair users with accessible seating in the front row and no stairs. The venue is working on installing more accessible front doors.
