Review: Witness for the Prosecution

Hey readers!
It's time for my review of Witness for the Prosecution.
Witness for the Prosecution had not originally been on my radar in regards to theatre shows, however I later found out about it after it had been nominated for the Olivier Award for Best Revival of a Play. After this nomination, I did some further research into the play and took an interest in it, so several weeks later I finally went along to see this acclaimed production of Witness for the Prosecution.

This production has a setting far from anything that I had ever seen before. This production has been staged at London's County Hall, the former meeting place for the Greater London Council. Where the councillors once met has now been transformed into a theatre, newly created for this production. With certain adjustments made inside the building, it has now been transformed to look similar to the Old Bailey (The Central and Criminal Court of England and Wales). Therefore, you as audience members are looking upon a life-like court trial. This immersive setting is utterly breathtaking. Throughout the play, you feel as if everything around you is actually real, and you are watching a real life court trial take place. It truly is astounding. As soon as you enter the building, it genuinely feels like you have stepped into the Old Bailey. This is additionally supported by the astounding set design, which was created by William Dudley. Through Dudley's phenomenal designs, it is still possible to show different locations when the play requires it, despite remaining on the court room stage.

Witness for the Prosecution tells the story of Leonard Vole, a man who is accused of murdering a widow to inherit her wealth. The stakes are high. Will Leonard survive the shocking witness testimony? Will he be able to convince the jury of his innocence and escape the hangman’s noose? Only time can tell. There is a large amount of suspense created throughout the show, leading the audience to wait anxiously on the edge of their seats. Agatha Christie's ingenious way of writing leaves the audience to second guess everything that is said and everything that is done. As I've come to learn, when it comes to an Agatha Christie play, there is not a single character to be trusted! The ending, which I wish not to spoil, is done in a particularly interesting manner, and I for one was left thunderstruck.

Witness for the Prosecution is filled with the highest quality of acting. In the role of accused murderer Leonard Vole, stars Harry Reid. Reid is particularly good in this role, being able to demonstrate a range of abilities needed to show the different sides to the character. As his loving wife, Romaine Vole, is Lucy Phelps. Phelps gives an all-round excellent performance, but the highlight of her portrayal is, without a doubt, her life-like German accent. Having German relatives, I know a good German accent when I see one, and I am pleased to say that Phelps' was entirely accurate and believable. Portraying Defence Barrister, Sir Wilfred Robarts QC, was Richard Clothier. Clothier is extremely believable in the role, providing the confidence and intellect needed for a Defence Barrister. He was exceedingly well suited to the part.

The costume designs, which have also been created by William Dudley, were sublime. They were very well suited to the time period that the play is set in, creating yet another layer that helps to transport the audience to this particular setting. They appeared to be extremely authentic, with the court official's costumes notably realistic.

The featured star of Witness for the Prosecution is, drum roll please... RICHARD CLOTHIER!

The decision to choose Richard Clothier for featured star came with ease; he truly was phenomenal. Clothier was tremendously believable, giving an extremely natural performance, as well as having very good dialect. Despite being in a sea of strong actors, Richard Clothier, undoubtedly, gives the stand-out performance in Witness for the Prosecution.

Now for my final verdict on Witness for the Production. I give Witness for the Prosecution...

Witness for the Prosecution is certainly worthy of its 4 star rating; it provides an unforgettable experience in a unique setting, all whilst being very entertaining.

Think it should have got a higher rating? Agree with my rating? Think it should have got a lower rating? If so comment below.

Thanks for reading!

-The Reviewer