‘The Mirror Crack’d’ is a brand new reworking of the classic from Rachel Wagstaff. It’s sharp and crisp.
It’s always a thrill to visit the Devonshire Park Theatre in Eastbourne, this perfectly preserved Victorian theatre is a restful antidote to the modern world. Sumptuous and comfortingly cosy at the same time.
Starring Suzie Blake, best known for playing the Continuity Announcer in Victoria Wood: As Seen on TV, as well as her regular roles of Bev Unwin in ITV’s Coronation Street.
She is perfectly cast as the shrewd Jane Marple. As always, the delight of this character is the high emotional intelligence and the ability to latch on to a casual comment but in a cunning disguise of absent minded dithering.
Oliver Boot playing the oafish Chief Inspector Craddock makes a splendid double act with Jane Marple, who regularly chastises him for asking too many questions but not letting the suspects answer.
Special mention goes to Veronica Roberts who plays Jane’s best friend and confidante, caught up in the drama at the manor house she once lived in with her husband. The stunning performance has a whiff of Hyacinth Bucket, but with more heart.
It looks good too. The simple set design is a rotating glass conservatory that transforms with each scene. There are terrific heart pounding special effects, (no spoilers) that have you jumping out of your seat!
The audience lapped up the suspense, the comedy and the slick performances. New arrival to the area, Radio 4’s very own Reverend Richard Coles was spotted in the stalls. He put his comments on Twitter straight away, ‘Crack’ing time at #themirrorcrack’d with my darling Co-strictlyite @joemcfadden and Susie Blake, a brilliant Miss Marple.’
This is a play for all ages, I anxiously brought my 17 year old son, and he loved it.
The production provides a punchy, slick show, with delightful levity and a tense second half filled with suspense, revelations and red herrings.
Complete immersion in a stylish, mid century murder mystery is what we all need right now.
Tickets from the Box office or
www.eastbournetheatres.co.uk/whats-on
Devonshire Park Theatre, Devonshire Park Theatre, Compton Street, Eastbourne BN21 4BW
Friday 16th September, 19.45, Saturday 17th September, 14:30 and 19:45
£23.50 – £31.00. Conc: £1.50 off
Groups 10+: 10% off
Under 16s Students: £10
Under 25s: £15
Ovation: £5 off