REVIEW: The Unexpected Guest

Intrigue and Suspense Delivered Effortlessly

Agatha Christie’s “The Unexpected Guest” is a must see for mystery and true crime lovers. Currently playing at the Theater in the Round in Minneapolis, this well loved play, under the direction of Mary Cutler, is another testament to the Queen of Mystery’s unparalleled knack for crafting intricate and suspenseful narratives. First performed in 1958, this play continues to captivate audiences with its expertly woven plot and engaging characters.

Set in a foggy estate in South Wales, the play opens with Michael Starkwedder, a stranger who inadvertently steps into the house of the Warwicks after his car goes off the road. He discovers the lifeless body of Richard Warwick, a man confined to a wheelchair, and next to him, his wife, Laura Warwick, holding a gun. This dramatic entrance sets the stage for a classic Christie whodunit.

Christie’s play excels in maintaining a taut, suspense-filled atmosphere from beginning to end. The isolated setting, typical of her works, adds to the sense of claustrophobia and tension as secrets begin to unravel. Every character is a potential suspect and each harbors hidden motivations and secrets that keep the audience on their toes.

The dialogue is sharp, witty, and laden with subtext. Christie’s characteristic humor shines at moments, and at times were apropos to our current political climate. It provided a brief reprieve from the building tension. The interplay between the characters is dynamic, creating a tapestry of suspects with potential motives, whether it be jealousy, revenge, or greed.

Particularly praiseworthy is how Christie deconstructs the alibi-centric mystery, throwing the audience into a complex puzzle. Just when you think you have figured out the culprit, another twist unfolds, reminding us why Dame Christie’s work remains timeless and evergreen. The eventual unraveling of the mystery is both satisfying and, typical of Christie, surprising.

However, the production’s success heavily relies on its cast. In the production I attended, the performers delivered strong, but sometimes over acted performances. Notable were Corinne Nobili as Laura Warwick and Sam Sweere as Michael Starkwedder, whose portrayal blended empathy with intrigue, pulling the audience deeper into the enigmatic storyline.

The set design lead by John Woskoff and lighting by Karen Hokenson and Alita Robertson also deserve commendation for effectively capturing the ambiance that is central to the narrative. The well-appointed living room contributes to the era of the time. Costume designer, Mickey Foley, did a remarkable job creating gorgeous dresses for Laura Warwick reminiscent of the popular swing style of the late 1950’s. 

I highly recommend “The Unexpected Guest.” It  is a masterclass in mystery genre theatre. With its complex plotting, engaging dialogues, and the psychological depth typical of Christie’s best work, it leaves audiences both entertained and intellectually stimulated. For those who enjoy unraveling a classic web of lies and deceit, this play offers a rewarding experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Christie’s works or a newcomer to her mysteries, “The Unexpected Guest” is not to be missed.  

This is the 73rd season for The Theatre in the Round making it the oldest live theater in the Twin Cities. The play runs Friday and Saturday nights at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm. Tickets start at $20.

The Unexpected Guest is at the Theatre in the Round through December 22, 2024. Click here for tickets.

Review by Debby Kwong