Review by Janice Bailey
Ten strangers are summoned to remote Soldier Island and none return! What happens to them on that island is generally considered one of Agatha Christie’s darkest novels. Originally published in 1939, under the politically incorrect title of “10 Little Niggers”, the novel has been adapted into movies and a play firstly as “Ten Little Indians” and finally under the more acceptable title of “And Then There Were None”. Christie has been lauded as one of the best writers of a good ‘thriller’ and if you have a penchant for this genre then you must not miss Adelaide Repertory Theatre’s current excellent production of this play at the Arts Theatre.
Director Adrian Barnes has gathered an admirable cast to take the audience through the unravelling of this ‘edge of your seat’ tale. David Haviland in his first role with The Rep is a delight to watch as Justice Hargrave as he brings all the characters together and moves the story forward. While each of the characters are made believable, special mention must go to Lindsay Dunn who delivers a faultless performance as Dr Edward George Armstrong, Rachel Williams who never falters as Vera Clayborne and Julie Quick’s Emily Brent. Each cast member embodied their character and had their own distinctive motivations and suspicions which constantly kept the audience guessing.
The set design by Simon Greer is very clever, with the mantelpiece containing the 10 little soldiers representing each of the characters as the centrepiece. As each of the guests meets their ‘end’ their soldier counterpart mysteriously disappears, leaving the audience anticipating who will be next! Excellent lighting and sound design by Richard Parkhill and Ray Trowbridge add to the suspense and anticipation.
This show is another winner and not to be missed.
