The Mousetrap – an Agatha Christie “Who Dunnit” thriller is the longest running show in British theatre and this year it’s back for it’s 60th anniversary tour.

When a newlywed couple open up their inherited home as a guesthouse, their first guests all arrive as scheduled and from the outset things are not going to plan. There’s been a murder in London and it is suspected that the offender may be staying at the guesthouse. Sgt Trotter is sent out to investigate, with poor weather conditions isolating the group overnight, the puzzle unfolds in a most dramatic and surprising way.

The set is detailed and impressive, a beautiful representation of a grand country home – a reflection of the quality of the overall production. The caliber of cast is also very, very high.

Older fans will recognise Mrs Boyle, played by Louise Jameson, from her role in Bergerac amoungst many other TV and Theatre appearances although its Sgt Trotter, played by Lewis Collier who really makes the show with his assured performance, an excellent casting.

The tense atmosphere is broken by hilarious characters Mr Paravincini and Christopher Wren, played by Gregory Cox and Oliver Gully – perfect to relieve the tension of an audience who were so engrossed you could hear a pin drop, as was the thrilling nature of the show.

This is genuinely one of the best dramas that are on tour at this moment in time. It has been described as a “classic country house murder” which is true, but this is by no means an average show.

An outstanding production gaining 4.5 out of 5 here on At The Theatre.

There’s one more chance to see the show tonight at The Regent Theatre – book at www.atgtickets.com/stoke.

Photography by Liza Maria Dawson