Review: Crimes on the Nile at the Lichfield Garrick

Writer: Feargus Woods Dunlop

Director: James Farrell

New Old Friends tour their latest production in the Crimes series which continues to delight an audience with their quirky take on a whodunnit.

Feargus Woods Dunlop writes the script and revisits the character of Artemis Arinae who decides to hop onboard a cruise down the river Nile. Kirsty Cox’s is the only actor to play one character and narrates the story well while also bringing a slightly more vulnerable take on the character in comparison to the productions that have gone before this one.

There are plenty of moments that will be a delight those returning audiences who have seen productions in this series before this one including the big reveal featuring over 10 characters with only four actors on stage, as well as a death scene that will have you chomping with joy.

For those who are new to the series they need not fear, there’s plenty to keep you laughing. This is a love child of a Carry On and Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple with it’s well conceived plot and light hearted British humor.

It is cast’s boundless energy that top off this production. Heather Westwell gets one of the biggest laughs pulling off a solo scene portraying three characters at the same time. Fergus Leathem and Woods Dunlop also create a thrilling and hilarious Camel race, alongside their other larger than life characters.

Connie Watson’s slick and well crafted set design has many uses. It’s part of the comedy and its ingenious creation helps create many of the characters at the end of the play.

Once more New Old Friends create an enjoyable knees up at the theatre. It’s no surprise that the age of the audience varies so much. From teens to pensioners, all will share the joy of this ravishingly good performance. There are moments that will delight and a plot that will keep you guessing, there’s not much more you can ask for from a great night out.

*Decision based on a ticket price of £14. For more info on this value for money rating please visit here: Introducing a new kind of rating