Murder on the Orient Express at the Festival Theatre Edinburgh

Peter Ustinov, Albert Finney, and Kenneth Branagh have all made their mark as Hercule Poirot.

But the actor best known as Agatha Christie's Belgian detective is undoubtedly David Suchet.

Until now.

Suchet played Poirot for 13 series between 1989 and 2013, and even wrote a book, Poirot and Me. So it's a brave actor who takes on the mantle of the famous fictional character.

And that brave actor, in this quality production gracing the Festival Theatre stage this week, is Michael Maloney, who makes the role his own. From the detective's military moustache to his pristine spats, his distinctive walk, impeccable demeanour and staccato delivery, he is, every inch, Poirot.

In Murder on the Orient Express, a passenger is murdered while the luxury train is stuck in a snow drift, and it is up to Poirot – having been in Istanbul for a few days' holiday – to find the killer.

What makes this production special is not only Maloney's portrayal but he shares star status with Mike Britton's staging.

Sumptuous carriages with inlaid wooden panelling set the scene for a passenger list which includes a countess and a princess, while Oliver Fenwick's lighting and Mic Pool's sound create just the right atmosphere, starting with a dramatic opening scene.

There's a lot going on but Ken Ludwig's adaptation is beautifully executed under Lucy Bailey's tight direction.

The whole production is a joy, especially as the cast includes Bob Barrett as Monsieur Bouc, director of the company which owns the train.

Although there are some humorous lines within the play, Barrett's natural warmth and joviality give the whole proceedings a welcome lift.

22 – 26 Oct 2024

EDINBURGH

Festival Theatre