Towards Zero
Reviewed by Lara J. Altunian
Long Beach Playhouse
Through February 11
Although it can be argued that a growing obsession with true crime may in part be responsible for the most recent revival of Agatha Christie’s work, there is no doubt that her detective fictions’ compelling twists make them visual treats easily transferable to theater and cinema. Jumping on the bandwagon is Long Beach Playhouse with their production of Towards Zero — a lesser-known tale than those of the famous Hercule Poirot, but still gnarled enough to keep the audience guessing until the end.
Lady Camilla Tressilian (Carmen Tunis) is hoping to host her usual round of seasonal guests at Gull’s Point, her seaside home in Saltcreek, Cornwall. Among them is her late husband’s athletic former ward Nevile Strange (Alex Piper) intent on disturbing her opportunity for a pleasant summer with the unorthodox request to have his ex-wife, Audrey Strange (Milena Gotch), visit at the same time as he and his new wife, Kay Strange (Jordan Brayboy). Nevile claims his purpose is for the women to get to know each other and become friends. However, this proves difficult for the jealous and hot-headed Kay, whereas the obliging Audrey remains cool and collected, showing no clear indication of her true feelings regarding the situation.
Adding to the odd company are Lady Tressilian’s unmarried, overworked companion, Mary Aldin (Samantha Haase), Kay’s boisterous friend Ted Latimer (Charlie Rodriguez) lodging at a nearby hotel, and family friends Mathew Treves (Spencer Douglas) and Thomas Royde (Mark Carlin). Mr. Treves is a frequent solicitor who finds the arrangement as equally curious and distasteful as Lady Tressilian does. Mr. Royde, who is staying at the house alongside the Strange trio, is hoping Audrey’s recent availability will give him the chance to declare his longtime love for her. What could possibly go wrong?
Tensions build, secrets are revealed, and the result (in true Christie fashion) is a sudden and ghastly murder. From there, it’s a race for Superintendent Battle (Lee Samuel Taang) and his nephew, Inspector Leach (Ben Pettis), to solve the case before the murderer can strike again. Everyone is a suspect, but the real trick is to try and figure out who could actually be capable of such a heinous crime.
Gerald Verner’s 1956 adaptation keeps the story concise by cutting out extra details from the 1944 novel, which would otherwise muddy the show’s structure and conclusion. Holland Renton’s direction keeps the movement flowing well throughout the space, preventing the parlor room drama from feeling visually stagnant as the players maneuver their way through the dialogue-driven plot. Similarly, Greg Fritsche’s set design is simple and understated, but effective in transforming Long Beach Playhouse’s limited space, allowing the performers to freely enter and exit each scene without detracting from the action taking place center stage. Christina Bayer’s timely costumes seamlessly complement and enhance the varying personas when it comes to clothing — the wigs however appear a bit too sloppy by comparison.
Piper is a standout as the charming Nevile. His striking diction, quick reactions, and flowing movements bring life into the character. Likewise, Douglas and Tunis are very natural as the elder members of the party who use their experience and prejudices to attempt to decipher each unfolding sequence. Their interactions mirror the audience’s questions and concerns with every turn of events. However, many of the rest of the performances feel a bit flat, especially as the actors take a few moments to warm up to their accents in the first act.
Those who love a classic murder mystery will be enthralled by the story. Stronger execution could lead to a stellar production.
Long Beach Playhouse Mainstage Theatre, 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach; Fri.–Sat., 8 pm.; Sun., 2 pm.; through Feb. 11. (562) 494-1014 or https://lbplayhouse.org/event/agatha-christies-towards-zero/. Running time: 2 hours and 20 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.
