TEN strangers are sent mysterious letters inviting them to holiday on a remote island. A storm blows up, there’s no phone and no rescue boat. It’s a play by Agatha Christie and it’s called ‘And Then There Were None’. From the outset you will get a distinct feeling that this is not going to end well.

As the curtains open at Ilkley Playhouse, to reveal a stylish art deco set, quite stark and cold, the audience is introduced to a strange array of misfit characters, all of whom are convinced that they are invited as the special guests of an absent hostess – her arrival has been ‘delayed’.

Careful costuming enhances the characterisations of this talented cast who combine murder mystery parody with moments of true tension and drama. Indeed the sound effects and glances to the audience in the first half lure the audience into a false sense of security, making the ending all more exciting.

This is very much an ensemble piece with commanding performances from everyone in this cast of playhouse ‘greats’ – delightful comedy cameos from servants Stephen Brown and Liz Hall, a tremulous Doctor from Mark Simister, a suave ‘bright young thing’ from Ted Oxley Kirk and a sinister and mysterious man-hater from Sue Garnett. Commandingly played by John Wise and Damien O’Keefe, the Judge and the Detective seem above reproach. An intriguing chemistry develops between Rachel Conyers and James Willstrop – flirtation, romance, suspicion and murderous loathing are all combined as this play reaches its dramatic climax.

Cunningly directed by David Kirk this intriguing play’s twists and turns keep the audience guessing until the very end – few could anticipate its ending. If you are quick there are some tickets are remaining – grab them! It runs until September 24.

by Becky Carter