For families with slightly older children aged 10+, Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution offers a wonderfully atmospheric theatre experience – and the setting is almost as impressive as the story itself.
Step inside the magnificent surroundings of London County Hall and you’ll find yourself transported into a spectacular courtroom, where Christie’s gripping tale of justice, passion and betrayal unfolds around you. Now in its seventh year, the production continues to draw audiences, with the immersive courtroom setting making it feel very different from a traditional theatre trip.
Leonard Vole is accused of murdering a wealthy widow in order to inherit her fortune. With the evidence mounting against him, his only hope is his barrister, Sir Wilfrid Robarts. As the case unfolds, the audience is drawn into the investigation, with witness testimony, conflicting stories and unexpected revelations keeping everyone guessing.
And this is a production that really does keep you guessing.
Our reviewer found the setting “incredible” and “so perfect for the show”, describing the courtroom as an “awesome chamber”. The atmosphere certainly adds to the tension, with the audience feeling as though they are right in the middle of the trial rather than simply watching it from the sidelines.
The performances are strong, too. Simon Cotton, as Leonard’s barrister Sir Wilfrid Robarts, creates a believable and likeable character – someone the audience can warm to as the case becomes increasingly complicated. Michael Mears, playing prosecution barrister Mr Myers, is considerably less likeable, but in a way that feels very deliberate and effective.
Eleanor Sutton’s Romaine is another memorable presence, although our reviewer described her rather bluntly as a “ghastly person” – which perhaps tells you everything you need to know about her character!
The production succeeds particularly well in maintaining its mystery. Even when you think you have worked out who can be trusted, another detail or piece of testimony can make you question your assumptions. Our reviewer admitted they never completely believed in Leonard, but still didn’t see the final twist coming.
There are also some lovely little details to spot. Even the characters with relatively little movement – including the Judge’s Clerk, Clerk of the Court and Stenographer – make good use of facial expressions, adding an extra layer of entertainment for observant audience members.
An understudy also impressed during the performance, stepping into the role of Janet MacKenzie and delivering an excellent performance.
The real strength of Witness for the Prosecution, however, is the way it draws its audience into the story. You aren’t simply watching a courtroom drama – you are effectively part of the proceedings, listening to the evidence and trying to decide for yourself who is telling the truth.
For families with children aged 10 and over who enjoy mysteries, crime stories and a little bit of theatrical suspense, it makes for an intriguing and memorable day or evening out.
And just when you think you have worked out what really happened, Christie has one more surprise waiting for you.
Witness for the Prosecution is playing at London County Hall. Find out more at witnesscountyhall.com.
