Liza Goddard will star as Miss Marple in Agatha Christie’s The Mirror Crack’d, adapted for the stage by Rachel Wagstaff, at The Mill at Sonning from 4 September to 31 October.
Set in the seemingly idyllic village of St Mary Mead, the mystery unfolds when a glamorous film star returns home and hosts a lavish gathering at Gossington Hall. What begins as a glittering social event ends in tragedy, prompting Miss Marple to investigate a web of secrets, grudges and deception.
Wagstaff’s adaptation brings Christie’s classic novel to the stage, combining sharp dialogue, unexpected twists and a cast of intriguing characters. The acclaimed writer is known for adaptations including The Da Vinci Code, The Girl on the Train and Death Comes To Pemberley.
Best known for her television roles in Bergerac and Give Us A Clue, Goddard said: “I am so excited to be stepping into the shoes of one of the greatest ever fictional sleuths created by the undisputed Queen of Crime. I adore the original book and Rachel Wagstaff has adapted it quite brilliantly for the stage. Even if you know the original story, there are surprises you won’t expect!
“Agatha Christie loved nothing more than to sit in the corner at parties observing everyone else’s in the room. It’s my opinion that Miss Marple was the character she created that was closest to Agatha’s own personality.”
Joining Goddard in the cast are Sara Crowe as Marina Gregg, Annie Wensak as Dolly Bantry, James Mack as Chief Inspector Craddock, Saskia Strallen as Lola Brewster, Paul Kemble as Cyril Leigh and Assistant Director, Jane Quinn as Heather Leigh, Elysia Showan as Cherie, Martin Razpopov as Giuseppe and Lydia Kirton as Ellen.
The production is directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, with design by Michael Holt, costumes by Natalie Titchener, lighting by Jamie Platt, sound by Nick Lodge and casting by Jane Deitch.
One of Agatha Christie’s most celebrated amateur detectives, Miss Marple has previously been portrayed on screen and stage by performers including Margaret Rutherford, Angela Lansbury, Joan Hickson, Geraldine McEwan and Julia McKenzie.
The Mirror Crack’d runs at The Mill at Sonning from 4 September until 31 October.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
