With the tenth cast now performing in Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution Katie Buchholz talks about playing Romaine Vole.
Witness for the Prosecution has captured the imagination of thousands gripped by the case of Leonard Vole, accused of murder in cold blood. Director Lucy Bailey (Much Ado About Nothing, Shakespeare’s Globe) thrillingly places the audience in the thick of the action as Christie’s enthralling tale of justice, passion and betrayal unfolds around them.
The twists and turns of the case are played out in a spectacular courtroom setting inside the atmospheric London County Hall as prosecution battles defence and witnesses take the stand to give their shocking testimonies. The production received Best Revival nominations at the 2018 Olivier and WhatsOnStage Awards.
You’re starring in Witness for the Prosecution at County Hall, how would you describe the show?
The show is a brilliant, gripping and tense courtroom drama. It’s a fantastic experience for the audience who are at the centre of the action, taking part in the verdict at the end. It’s dark and riveting with all the Agatha Christie flare that we love.
You’re part of the tenth cast, how does it feel for you and your cast mates to be joining the iconic production?
There’s something so exciting about joining a show that you know is in popular demand. I think one of the most nerve wracking elements of doing show for me is hoping that it lands with its audience. From the first preview it was such a lovely surprise for all the cast to feel the audience taking such an active part in the piece.
Tell us a little about your character, what are you loving about the role?
I think Romaine is one of the most exciting women I’ve played. She’s such a joy; fiercely intelligent, dynamic, mischievous and unpredictable. She has a tendency to cause trouble (so I couldn’t really ask for a more enjoyable person to play).
And what do you find most challenging?
I think the most challenging part is trying to get into the psyche of someone that is so exceptionally quick minded – I feel like her mind works at lightning speed. There’s no space for missing a beat or drifting off, so it requires an alertness and hyper awareness on stage that I don’t think I’ve ever explored before. (That and acting in heels – not something I can say I’m an expert in yet)
What are you loving most about the unique setting of County Hall?
It’s the most terrific space to play in. It’s beautiful and historic – very little has been changed from when it was in use as a real courtroom so it makes it feel all the more real and you can sense that effect on the audience as well. Occasionally people get so into it they interact with the lawyers or take notes throughout the court case. I love how it encompasses the audience as part of the action.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Witness for the Prosecution?
I think it’s a great evening for everyone; On one level it’s a thrilling story with a captivating and unpredictable plot that has the audience guessing at each turn who’s the culprit, but I also feel as a piece of theatre it goes beyond just being a ‘whodunnit’. It’s a piece that explores class, prejudice, passion and loyalty. I truly think it’s one of Agatha Christie’s finest – come along !
Katie Buchholz is represented by BBA management and is starring in Agatha Christie’s Olivier award-winning courtroom murder mystery Witness for the Prosecution as Romaine Vole in London’s West End. Tickets are available here: https://witnesscountyhall.com/
