Left to right: Norman Price (PC Benson), Alan Burnett (Superintendent Battle), and Joseph Downes (Neville Strange) in “Towards Zero” at the Laurel Mill Playhouse. Photo by John Cholod and Reese.
Is there anything better on a winter’s night than trying to solve a great Agatha Christie mystery with friends? Laurel Mill Playhouse is now produced by Maureen Rogers and directed by Larry Simmons. and presents “Towards Zero” by Christie and Christopher Bahner. The play was written by her in 1944, which Christie did not write on her own the previous year, but with Varner.
This is a classic Christie scenario. We are transported to the home of a wealthy woman, Mrs. Tresilian (Maureen Rogers). Visiting the widow are Neville Strange (Joseph Downes), his new wife Kay Strange (Aparna Sri), and his ex-wife Audrey Strange (Dana Fleischer). Other guests include Thomas Lloyd (Michael Angeloni), Matthew Trebs (John Chorrod), and coming to dinner is Kay’s friend Ted Latimer (Sanjeev Dev). Attending Lady Tresilian and other guests is the housekeeper, Mary Aldin. I don’t think I’m going to spoil it by saying there was a murder — it’s Christie, after all — and coming to solve the case is Superintendent Battle (Alan Burnett) of Scotland Yard, his nephew. It’s Inspector Leach (Daniel), the local constable. Shall), cop, PC Benson (Norman Price).
If you’re looking for an entertaining night and like a good mystery, don’t miss it ‘towards zero‘ We had an endlessly wonderful time at the Laurel Mill Playhouse.
The cast all do a great job of keeping us involved in the social and criminal entanglements. Suri as Kay is particularly memorable as Neville’s socialite spark wife, who is trying to deal with the presence of her ex-wife Audrey. Downs is riveting too, as Neville has caught on to this triangle. The entire cast deserves kudos for presenting a well-made production.
Simmons’ rendition made us nervous and his set was very British. The costumes, designed by Marge McGugan, were timeless and beautifully executed. Reese is the assistant director to whom Simmons thanked before the play began.
If you’re looking for a fun night out and love a mystery, don’t miss ‘Towards Zero’ at the Laurel Mill Playhouse.
Running time: 2 hours and 30 minutes including one intermission.
CAUTIONS: Mild Violence.
Towards Zero will take place the weekend through February 5, 2023 at the Laurel Mill Playhouse, 508 Main Street, Laurel, MD 20707. For tickets, please visit this link. The LMP strongly encourages patrons attending performances to be vaccinated and wear masks.
