Providence students and special guests have been busy brushing up on their British accents ahead of next month’s production of The Mousetrap.
The theatre classic, written by Agatha Christie and performed more than 27,000 times in London over 65 years, is the second major production staged by Providence since a theatre revamp in 2017.
“The Mousetrap is an institution and clearly a favourite among theatre fans,” says Marc Moir, Instructor in Theatre at Providence. “As Providence strives to rebuild its theatre program, The Mousetrap seemed a logical way to get back in the game with one swing.”
The play, which debuted at Theatre Royal in Nottingham City Centre in 1952, is a murder mystery rich with suspicion, suspense, and charm and keeps the audience captivated until the end, which may or may not consist of a twist or two.
“Our actors have all done a wonderful job of adapting to this style of piece,” says Moir. “Everyone’s British accents are top-notch, and it’s always fun to do a period piece.
Moir points out that Laura Moir, his sister-in-law, who plays Mollie Ralston, is one of the best actresses he has “ever seen or worked with” and delivers an exceptional performance. The audience will also be treated to a performance by Jon Ted Wynne as Major Metcalf.
“Jon Ted Wynne is a dear friend and colleague,” explains Moir, adding that the long-time actor and filmmaker studied at the prestigious Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. “Ted also taught theatre for a short time at Providence. He is my mentor in theatre and it has been wonderful to have him on the team to help coach and mentor our actors.”
Another touch the audience can look forward to is a collection of props that have been used in productions of The Mousetrap by London’s St. Martins Theatre.
The Mousetrap will open at Providence on Thursday, March 15 with a 2:00 p.m. matinee for local high school students. The general opening will be that night at 7:00 p.m., followed by performances on March 16 (7:00 p.m.), March 17 (2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.), and March 18 (3:00 p.m.)
