Murder on the Nile

The MARCO Players, Chorley Old Road Community Hall

Until Saturday

BASED on Agatha Christie’s 1937 novel, Death on the Nile, Christie’s stage adaptation was first presented in 1944 and re-titled Murder on the Nile.

It remains an all time favourite and, whilst not having the Poirot character which was a firm decision by Christie, it is still as appealing.

The action takes place in the observation saloon of the paddle steamer lotus as it sets sail down the Nile.

As the passengers embark, eagerly anticipating the joys of their journey, little do they know what lies in store as we are introduced to a myriad of characters?

Director Mark Weatherall ensures each character is brought to the fore and provides an effective set which is well used.

Younger members, Adam Crompton, making his 2nd MARCO appearance, and Amy Costello and Vivienne Hall, who both are debuting for the society, play the parts of the persistent bead sellers and do a great job. We had loud and clear delivery ensuring every line was heard which was confirmed by the audience laughter.

The tension begins as newlyweds Simon and Kay Mostyn arrive to start their honeymoon. As they bump into Kay’s uncle, the Canon Ambrose Pennefather, all becomes clear that there is a love tryst — will the woman scorned embark or will they live happily ever after?

Ruth Morley gives an ever reliable performance as Kay whilst James Haslam comes into his own as the devoted Simon playing the part with a sincere aura – but can we trust him?

It is up to the Canon-cum-sleuth, played with revered integrity by Len Rice, to uncover the events leading up to the demise of one or two passengers, who will remain nameless for obvious reasons.

Adding further to the tension and causing our minds to work overtime is Simon’s spurned fiancé, Jaqueline De Severac who by coincidence decided to take a trip down the Nile.

Natalie Crompton’s interpretation of this character is just right as she provides pathos, sincerity and satire rolled into a rounded performance that kept us in suspense — the outcome of which becomes clear as the story unfolds.

With a strong supporting cast completing the line up of 14 characters, including Richard Leigh, Lindsay Taylor and newcomers Nicolas Edwards and Charlotte Ashworth, MARCO has closed this successful season on a high.

Paul Cohen