"Dreams in a Drawer"

Once again The Guthrie’s designers, shop, and crew amazed me! I didn’t think it was possible to create a set featuring a beautifully-painted prosceium and drops, where the motion of a moving train was believably realized, as well as an avalanche of snow, a key plot point. But, yes, the set design work by Rob Koharchik was impeccable. The interiors of the cabins, the dining room, all the locations on the train were rich in period details; set transitions were seamless. Costume design by Devon Painter was stunningly excecuted; wigs and makeup were first rate; lighting, projections and sound sublimely enhanced the tension and suspense of the play.

The ensemble cast of ten was outstanding! They were led by the central character - Christie’s famous detective Hercule Poirot! It took me a few minutes to erase the physical presence of David Suchet, the inimitable television Poirot, from mind; but the taller, less eccentric, dizzyingly delicious and offbeat take of Andrew May as Monsieur Poirot soon won over my allegiance.

Each actor created a fully realized character whose secrets built to a morally ambiguous conclusion. Was justice served in the end? It depends on the character you chose to believe.

Kudos to The Guthrie for using local Equity members whose talents have shone brightly on professional stages around the Twin Cities and beyond for years. China Brickey, Michelle Barber, Sally Wingert and Tyler Michaels King, your work was thoroughly enjoyable as always! I single you out as I am very familiar with your recent work in musicals. As I witnessed your performances on the final preview, I now realize I’ve only seen glimpses of your abundant talents.

Gavin Lawrence, Katie Bradley, Peter Christian Hansen, Jane Froiland and Robert Johansen ... What fine work you offered the audience!

I give credit to Ken Ludvig’s adaptation and to the fantastic direction of Raisa Brainin for how entertaining this production of “Murder on the Orient Express” is ... Ludvig for the comic spirit of his adaptation and Brainin for the unexpected farcial touch the actors brought to the material. Such an assured light approach to devilishly complex, ambiguously dark themes was quite welcome.

Full houses can be expected for The Guthrie Theater’s production of “Murder on the Orient Express”. I highly recommend taking in the show! How can you pass on a murder mystery by legendary author and playright Agatha Christie, featuring one of her most famous detective creations, splendidly realized by a first-rate cast? Ignore my rhetorical question! Without leaving town, you can savor a pleasurable two-hour visit to murder and mayhem on the Orient Express.