'Mousetrap' Doesn’t Provide Same Thrills

By Staff Writer Kyle Ridley

Oftentimes only a fine line separates a classic production from a dated one. Unfortunately, for Fauquier Community Theatre’s current rendition of Agatha Christie’s murder mystery The Mousetrap , that line is crossed.

The modest production, playing at the Theatre at Vint Hill through Feb. 15, is a prime example of how the high-tech suspense we have grown used to on a movie screen can numb the excitement of mystery on a theatre stage.

With the radio reporting an area woman having been strangled to death, a group of suspicious characters conveniently get snowed-in at a bed and breakfast just outside of London.

When one of the houseguests is similarly slain just before intermission, the race is on to find the killer before another victim is claimed. Everyone’s got a secret and everyone’s a suspect. You get the gist.

We have seen it rehashed for decades with booming special effects and intense soundtracks. It’s tough competition for some playhouses, and sadly FCT has fallen prey to mainstream media’s dominant reign. Somewhere along the way, The Mousetrap made the shift from innovative to same ol’ same ol’.

That’s not to take away from the talented eight-player cast or devoted crew. The actors are all pretty flawless in their portrayals; it’s nearly impossible to distinguish between the real and fake British accents.

Most notable is Richard Isaac’s take on flamboyant hotel guest Christopher Wren. His energized portrayal offers needed comic relief and commands attention. Whether flailing his lean, lanky body across the stage or sitting silently on the sidelines, all eyes are on him.

Kathryn Kent-Hutchins also gives a slick performance as Miss Casewell, a confident businesswoman with a dark past. Playing a no-nonsense professional with a pressed blue pantsuit to match, Hutchins perfectly embodies the role while slyly taking drags of her cigarette.

Similar to its cast, FCT’s set is also well-crafted. The simple living room format is enhanced with warm toned furniture and an elegant spiral staircase. Design props are due to whoever concocted the stormy effects of rain outside the center stage window.

Despite its mix of admirable elements, The Mousetrap’s overall entertainment value takes a heavy blow. By the time all of the pieces are connected at the two-and-a-half hour mark, you’ve grown weary of the puzzle.

Here’s a case where longevity does not always equal triumph. The Mousetrap holds the record for being the longest running play in history, opening in 1952 and showing in London ever since.

It may have been a celebration of originality back in its heyday, but time has extinguished that high flame to a flickering spark. The burning question is no longer an anxious “Whodunit?” but instead, a tired “Who cares?”

WANT TO GO?
What's up: Fauquier Community Theatre presents The Mousetrap

When: Feb. 6-8, 13-15 (Fridays & Saturdays 8 p.m., Sundays 2 p.m.)

Where: The Fauquier Community Theatre at Vint Hill 4225 Aiken Dr., Warrenton, VA 20187

Tickets: $14 for adults, $12 for students and seniors at www.fctstage.org or (540) 349-8760 ­­­­