Il Nuovo Postiglione - Strathmore Theatre Players Guild Brings 'Murder on the Orient Express' to Stage

The Strathmore Theatre Players Guild has launched its production of Ken Ludwig’s stage adaptation of Agatha Christie’s “Murder on the Orient Express,” drawing audiences into a mystery that blends suspense with live theatrical unpredictability. The performances are taking place at the Hope Covenant Community Church, with the run scheduled to continue through November 21.

Director Robert Cole noted that the production’s opening night established an immediate connection with viewers. During the premiere on Friday, a sound cue from offstage prompted a visible reaction from the crowd. “And then there’s this scream from offstage, and I don’t think there was a single person in the audience who didn’t jump,” Cole said. He interpreted the collective startle as an indicator that the show had successfully captured the passengers’ tension.

The guild selected Ludwig’s version of the classic whodunit for its accessibility and entertainment value. “I just love his writing, it’s so much fun,” Cole said regarding the adaptation choice. However, preparing the production required navigating unexpected logistical challenges. A cast member sustained an injury during rehearsals, necessitating a last-minute replacement for the role of Ratchett. The substitute actor performed with a glued-on moustache and had to adjust his interactions with other characters to maintain continuity.

Cole credited the ensemble’s adaptability and energy. “They’re a great group,” he said, highlighting the cast’s willingness to embrace the role despite the short notice. This enthusiasm extended to the linguistic demands of the production. The actors performed in a variety of accents, including Belgian, Hungarian, French, and Swedish. Cole described the cast as “over the top” from the beginning, providing him with abundant material to shape the performances.

The mystery relies on visual clues that Cole stated are presented plainly, though they may escape first-time viewers. “I’m absolutely blatantly obvious on the clues,” he said, noting that small details often go unnoticed until their significance is revealed by the plot. To encourage deeper engagement, the guild allows patrons who have purchased tickets to return for a second viewing at no additional cost. This policy, introduced several years ago, enables audiences to spot missed details after the solution has been disclosed.

Behind the scenes, co-chair and stage manager Tashina Mackenzie managed multiple critical functions, including prompting, dressing, props, and calling the show. With three productions currently in preparation within Strathmore, backstage resources were stretched. Cole emphasized that Mackenzie’s contributions were essential to keeping the production on track.

Cole invited new attendees to approach the event without formal expectations. He noted there is no dress code and that the atmosphere is relaxed rather than pretentious. “You don’t have to sit there and wear a suit to the show,” he said. He also pointed to the community aspect of local theatre, where audience members might discover unexpected talents in their neighbors.

The production runs from November 6 through November 21. Evening performances begin at 7:30 p.m., with matinees scheduled for 2 p.m. on November 14 and 15. Tickets are available online at strathmoreplayers.ca, at The Vault, or at the door. General admission is priced at $22, while youth and senior tickets cost $17.

E.Accardi--INP