At the heart of the production is Nicola Taylor’s riveting portrayal of Clarissa Hailsham-Brown. With charm, wit, and boundless energy, Taylor captures the character’s imaginative nature while effortlessly navigating the tension that arises when fiction collides with reality. Her dynamic with Sophie Watson’s Pippa Hailsham-Brown adds emotional depth to the play, as the stepmother-stepdaughter relationship is portrayed with both tenderness and suspicion.
The supporting cast is equally strong, delivering outstanding performances that elevate the production. Roger Paul as the suave Rowland Delahaye provides a wonderful mix of humour and intrigue, while Tim Byron’s Hugo Birch exudes authority with a touch of comedic exasperation. Jon Simpson’s Jeremy Warrender is charismatic and engaging, offering a fascinating contrast to the more composed Henry Hailsham-Brown, played with gravitas by Miller Shettoch. Meanwhile, Michelle April Zintschenko as Mildred Peake and Rav Saxena as Elgin inject moments of lightheartedness that balance the play’s darker themes.
Andrew McAliece commands the stage as the determined Inspector Lord, bringing a sharp and methodical energy to the investigation. His exchanges with Tim L. Chellerhos’ sinister Oliver Costello are tense and thrilling, adding further layers to the mystery. Mitchell Sholer rounds out the cast with his sharp timing and naturalistic portrayal of the ever-watchful Constable Jones.
The pacing is tight, never losing momentum, and the staging ensures that every moment of intrigue unfolds with precision. The Lowe Auditorium’s set design is another highlight, with the lavishly decorated drawing room serving as the perfect backdrop for deception and surprise. Clever lighting and sound design heighten the tension, making the audience feel fully immersed in the unraveling mystery.
With stellar performances, atmospheric production values, and a plot that keeps you guessing until the final moments, Spider’s Web is a theatrical triumph. Whether you’re a longtime Christie fan or a newcomer to her work, this production is not to be missed. Get your tickets while you can—this web of mystery won’t stay spun forever!
