Witness for the Prosecution

by Agatha Christie

directed by Lexi von Hoffmann

All the evidence in the brutal murder of Miss Emily French points to Leonard Vole. The middle-aged lady had taken a shine to the charming young drifter – and even made him her sole heir. Now the only thing standing between Vole and the death penalty is an alibi provided by his wife Romaine. When unexpectedly she turns witness for the prosecution and retracts her former testimony, the trial becomes a roller coaster ride of surprises. Can experienced defence attorney Sir Wilfrid Robarts and his team still save Vole from the gallows?

Agatha Christie’s gripping courtroom drama is hailed as her theatrical masterpiece – and it certainly showcases one of the most ingenious plot twists. The play was, in fact, adapted by Christie from one of her own short stories. Upon its London opening in 1953, it saw great success in the UK, which it repeated soon afterwards on Broadway. The story started its third life with Billy Wilder’s movie, starring Marlene Dietrich in the title role.