The Mirror Crack’d – Altrincham Garrick Playhouse

Adapted by Rachel Wagstaff and Directed by Mike Shaw, The Mirror Crack’d graced the stage at the beautiful Altrincham Garrick Playhouse. Opening night played to an almost full auditorium, a testament to the theatre’s enduring reputation for quality productions. Under the assured direction of Mike Shaw, and in Rachel Wagstaff’s faithful and fluid adaptation of Agatha Christie’s novel, The Mirror Crack’d proved to be an absorbing and richly layered evening of classic mystery.

Set in the village of St Mary Mead, the drama begins with the arrival of glamorous Hollywood actress Marina Gregg, who has purchased Gossington Hall. To mark the occasion, she hosts an elegant evening of cocktails, inviting the local community into her glittering world. During the party, a guest suddenly collapses after drinking a cocktail intended for Marina. The shocking incident quickly fuels suspicion that the real target was the actress herself.

As whispers circulate and tensions rise, Miss Jane Marple quietly observes from the margins. Beneath the polished surface of celebrity and village civility lies a web of memory, jealousy, and long-buried sorrow. Through patient deduction and piercing psychological insight, Marple gradually uncovers a truth that is both unexpected and profoundly moving. True to Christie’s craftsmanship, the play is filled with twists and carefully placed clues, holding the audience’s attention until its poignant final revelation.

At the heart of the production was Sarah Kirk as Miss Jane Marple. Kirk delivered a beautifully judged performance, capturing the character’s gentle demeanour and razor-sharp intellect. Her Marple was warm, quietly humorous, and utterly observant, a figure who appears harmless yet misses nothing. Kirk’s stage presence anchored the production, and her calm authority drew the audience into every moment of deduction. An outstanding portrayal.

Equally impressive was Jonathan Black as Chief Inspector Dermot Craddock. Black brought gravitas and measured control to the role, balancing professional determination with subtle humour and humanity. His exchanges with Kirk were among the production’s highlights, their dynamic lending both credibility and momentum to the investigation. Black’s clarity, confidence, and strong vocal command marked him as another standout performer.

Steph Niland gave a layered and emotionally compelling performance as Marina Gregg. She convincingly portrayed the brittle glamour of a Hollywood icon, poised and dazzling on the surface, yet fragile and haunted beneath. Niland ensured that Marina was never a caricature of celebrity, but a complex woman shaped by her past.

Isabelle Mead’s Cherry Baker provided warmth and steady practicality, grounding the action with sincerity and quiet strength.

Adele Higson, as Heather Leigh, delivered an energetic portrayal with great stage presence. Ros Greenwood brought charm and authenticity to Dolly Bantry, whilst Alexandra Hulston’s Lola Brewster added theatrical sparkle and lively energy, offering moments of contrast to the darker themes unfolding on stage.

The entire cast were fully invested, each performer committed to their role and contributing meaningfully to the ensemble dynamic. It is clear this was a company working in harmony.

The set design was authentically realised, evoking the elegance and atmosphere of the period with careful attention to detail. Costumes were equally authentic and entirely fitting for the era, enhancing both character and setting. Visually, the production transported the audience convincingly into Christie’s world.

Lighting by James Merrington was particularly effective, subtly shaping mood and guiding focus throughout the evening. However, sound proved more challenging. With no microphones in use, dialogue was at times difficult to hear, particularly towards the back of the auditorium. Despite an exceptionally attentive and silent audience, some lines were lost, which occasionally reduced the impact of key exchanges.

Under the artistic direction of Joseph Meighan, the Garrick continues its well-earned reputation for producing excellent theatre, and this production stands proudly among them. The acting was excellent across the board, with especially outstanding performances from Sarah Kirk and Jonathan Black.

With performances of this calibre and a mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end, this is a production not to be missed. Whether you’re a devoted Christie fan or simply looking for a gripping night out, The Mirror Crack’d at the Altrincham Garrick Playhouse delivers suspense, elegance, and first class acting in equal measures. Secure your ticket now and experience an evening of twists, tension, and top tier theatre before the curtain falls on the 1^st of March.

Tickets can be purchased online at https://www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk or from the box office on 0161 928 1677.

Reviewer: Katie Leicester

Reviewed: 23^rd February 2026

North West End UK Rating: