Murder On the Links Review – Agatha Christie is Back

Agatha Christie’s second novel to feature her most famous detective, Hercule Poirot, MURDER ON THE LINKS again turns to a classic story of mystery, murder, and mayhem. Based on Christie’s 1923 novel, MURDER ON THE LINKS was adapted for the stage by Steven Dietz in a hilarious poke at Christie’s twisty mysteries. First produced at the North Coast Repertory Theatre in San Diego, MURDER ON THE LINKS is a true parody and very entertaining. In 2024, The International City Theatre proudly presents this uproarious comedy.

The time is the early 1930s, and the place is a country villa on the coast of France. Hercule Poirot (Louis Lotorto) arrives in France after receiving an urgent summons from Paul Renauld – but he is too late. M. Renauld now lies dead in a grave on the edge of the golf course which he was building. As Poirot and his handy-dandy sidekick Captain Hastings (Daniel A. Stevens) investigate, they discover multiple suspects for this murder, including the deceased man’s wife, son, and various other nefarious characters hanging around the villa. But only one murder is too small a task for this detective mastermind, and so a second murder follows with the victim stabbed in a seemingly impossible way. Now Poirot’s brilliance finally has a chance to shine. In this convoluted and complicated tale, you’ll need a scorecard to keep track of the clues.

Skillfully directed by Todd Nielsen, MURDER ON THE LINKS offers a brainteasing trail of hints – all cleverly wrapped in a farcical package. It is hard to believe that the tumultuous goings-on are the product of only six actors – Lotorto, Stevens, and Brian Stanton, James Simenc, Tina Van Berckelaer, and Gabbie Adner. The latter four get to play multiple roles as the mystery unfolds – often necessitating such quick changes that the mind boggles. At times, there are such rapid and repeated character and costume changes that it is hard to keep up with the plot, which seems to spin off with a mind of its own. At the same time, the talented cast get the most out of Christie’s tale, with special kudos to Lotorto; by the way, the waxed mustache is his own. The cast members also do a yeoman’s job of sticking to a very British accent.

Destiny Manewal’s scenic design is simple but perfect for the period and works well with Kimberly DeShazo’s costumes, Donna Ruzika’s lighting, and Dave Mickey’s sound. After the show, the cast discussed technical and personal responses to the play. It was fascinating to hear how they finally managed (with limited rehearsals) to keep straight all the changes in character, movement, and lines. These are clearly professionals. MURDER ON THE LINKS should appeal to Christie afficianados and mystery lovers everywhere – especially since the comic approach is not the usual method used to convey the story elements in classic Christie mysteries. This is an entertaining and very amusing production, so don’t work too hard trying to un-weave each clue! It all works out in the end.

Cast of MURDER ON THE LINKS (Artistic Director/Producer caryn desai on far right) in After-Show Talk Back – Photo by Elaine L. Mura

MURDER ON THE LINKS runs through November 3, 2024, with performances at 7:30 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and at 2 p.m. on Sundays. The International City Theatre is located in the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, 330 East Seaside Way, Long Beach, CA 90802. Tickets are $49 for Thursdays through Saturdays and $52 for Sunday matinees. For information and reservations, call 562-436-4610 or go online.