Witness For The Prosecution

A good murder mystery, especially one by Agatha Christie, is usually a recipe for box-office success and KADS seem to be on a winner with Witness for The Prosecution, with a capacity house on Opening Night. This play is currently enjoying a long run in London, testament to the play’s ongoing popularity.

Director Peter Neaves’ stately wood panelled set design manages to fit both a courtroom and the office of Sir Wilfred Robarts QC onto the pocket sized KADS stage, using a large table that serves both scenes. This works well apart from the staging for the first scene which leaves Carter, played by Joel Paull with his back to much of the audience. 

Opening night was a bit of a mixed bag in terms of performances, with some still feeling a little undercooked, and a dropped line which rolled down the stairs and halfway down the hill before anyone managed to pick up the story. Nevertheless, this was a highly emotive show, and the audience were clearly completely engaged.

Catalyst character Leonard Vole, accused of murder early in the show, is played by Keelan Thompson with credibility and depth - very likeable and winning the sympathy of the audience. Jay Shaw, despite in some ways being miscast in this role, delivers an excellent performance as his wife Romaine Vole - and interesting and complex character.

John Pomfret is believable as barrister Sir Wilfred, with occasional hesitancy becoming something of a character trait. Tim Riessen plays solicitor Mr Mayhew with efficiency. Prosecutor Mr Myers is given a convincing courtroom manner by David Prickett, while Paul Larder’s Judge feels like he has been running courtrooms for years - understated and wry. Vicki Bell is the Court Usher.

Other witnesses in what is predominantly a courtroom drama include Anita Bound’s excellent cranky housekeeper Janet McKenzie and Leena Uppal making interesting choices as Dr Wyatt - sailing through the complex medical jargon - unsurprising as she is a GP in real-life. Solid testimony from Joel Paul as Mr Clegg and Ian Fraser as Inspector Hearne. 

Aleysha Hayes last minute appearance as “the girl” is beautifully drawn - lovely work in this game-changing cameo.

Set decoration and dialogue would indicate that this production is set around the time of the first production of this show - in late 1953 - although costumes (organised by the cast) don’t always reflect this. Lighting design, by Virginia Moore-Price is effective.

A compelling production with good drive that supports this well-written story. A great choice for fans of murder mysteries and those who love a good twist or two.

Kimberley Shaw