The Mousetrap Review
Agatha Christie's 'The Mousetrap', opened in the West End on the 25th November 1952, which means it has been running for over 50 years making it the world's longest running play - an incredible achievement for any play and one that the producers are rightly proud of. In the course of the first 50 years, according to the programme notes, over 10 million people have seen the show and over 395 tons of ice cream have been sold!
So what is the show's success? Part of it has to do with the fame of playwright Agatha Christie. In 1962 UNESCO announced that she was the most widely read British writer in the world, beating even Shakespeare, who came a miserable second. As the creator of such famous sleuths as Miss Jane Marple and the famous French, sorry Belgian, Detective Hercule Poirot, Agatha Christie is the most famous 'whodunnit' crime writer of all time. Who has not heard of "Death on the Nile" or "Murder on the Orient Express"?
Agatha Christie's fame has surely played a part in this show's success. In the 1950's Christie's books were regularly in the top sellers list. It was hardly surprising that a play, which has never been published or turned into a movie or tv programme, should attract avid fans. Since that initial enthusiasm the show has now become one of the essential things to do on many a tourists schedule - go to Buckingham Palace, visit the Tower of London and see 'The Mousetrap'.
The play is your regular 'whodunit' mystery. Eight people are snowed in at a guest house: Mollie and Giles Ralston, the owners; four invited guests, each with eccentric characteristics; the unexpected guest, who turns up out of the blue after his car overturns in the snow storm; and finally a skiing detective. Once everyone has arrived it is not long before a murder takes place and the detective assembles all the guests together and interrogates them one by one. Each avoid the truth, some by silence and others by lies? Can the murderer be caught before more deaths happen?
The story, whilst sensational and full of silly coincidences, is actually quite good. The characters are, despite their histrionics, vivid and they interact amongst themselves with macabre amusement. There are enough false clues to keep you guessing and a few hidden ones that mean if you stay alert you will not be too surprised to discover that the murderer is ****. Just kidding! If you want the answer to that question then you will need to go and see this quintessentially English murder mystery for yourself.
NOTE: The star rating was added to this review by the editor after original publication
The Mousetrap Tickets are now on sale.
Frequently asked questions
What is The Mousetrap about?
Keep the secret of the world’s longest running mystery! This Agatha Christie classic has tantalised mystery-lovers for generations. Become part of theatrical history as you discover the answer to the theatre world’s best-kept secret. Only you can discover whodunnit! Get your tickets to The Mousetrap at St. Martin’s Theatre today.
How long is The Mousetrap?
The running time of The Mousetrap is 2hr 20min. Incl. 1 interval.
Where is The Mousetrap playing?
The Mousetrap is playing at St. Martin's Theatre. The theatre is located at West Street, London, WC2H 9NZ.
What's the age requirement for The Mousetrap?
The recommended age for The Mousetrap is Ages 7+ (recommended). Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult. Under 4s will not be admitted. All children must have their own ticket..
How do you book tickets for The Mousetrap?
Book tickets for The Mousetrap on London Theatre.
Who wrote The Mousetrap?
The Mousetrap was created by the renowned British murder mystery writer Agatha Christie. One of the longest-running theatrical productions in the world, this classic murder mystery has engrossed audiences for over seventy years.
When did The Mousetrap open in the West End?
The Mousetrap opened in the West End on November 25, 1952, and has been running for over a record-breaking 70 years, making it one of the longest-running plays in history.
Is The Mousetrap appropriate for kids?
The Mousetrap is recommended for people over seven years old. An adult must accompany children under the age of 16. Children under the age of 4 will not be admitted.
Is The Mousetrap good?
The Mousetrap is a thrilling murder mystery that will have you guessing the culprit until the very end. Read our four-star review of the The Mousetrap.
How long has 'The Mousetrap' been in playing in London?
The Mousetrap has been playing in London for over seventy years. It is the longest-running play in the West End.
Who is the murderer in The Mousetrap?
We couldn’t possibly tell you that! To find out who the murderer is, book tickets to The Mousetrap on London Theatre.
Which Agatha Christie book is The Mousetrap based on?
The Mousetrap is based on a radio play called Three Blind Mice. Agatha Christie wrote this for the Royal family in 1947. The story was later adapted into the play, The Mousetrap.
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