What drew you to this play?

I’ve always loved Agatha Christie at her most glamorous, and Murder on the Nile has that perfect mix of luxury, deception, and razor-sharp character writing, plus the excitement of telling the story in its original theatrical form.

How would you describe your vision for the production?

A sun-drenched 1930s world of elegance and intrigue, where everything appears flawless on the surface, but beneath it all, everyone has something to hide.

What’s been the biggest challenge in directing this play?

The ensemble nature of the cast. Every character is just as important as the next, and the story only works if everyone is fully invested and firing together.

Have there been any standout moments in rehearsals that made you especially proud?

Our very first rehearsal. Having everyone in the room together and feeling the energy they brought from the very start was a real confirmation that I’d made the right decision with this cast.

How do you approach working with actors to bring out their best performances?

By creating a supportive, playful environment where actors feel confident taking risks, great performances come from trust, curiosity, and collaboration.

Are there any unexpected elements or creative choices audiences might not expect?

Without giving too much away, we’ve leaned into atmosphere and tension in ways that feel almost cinematic, with moments that may surprise even seasoned Christie fans.

What do you think makes this play particularly relevant or special for audiences today?

It explores the masks people wear and the stories they tell about themselves, and how quickly those facades can crack, which feels just as relevant now as ever.

What’s one behind-the-scenes fact people might not know?

This version has fewer characters than many Christie adaptations, which means every single person on stage truly matters, there’s nowhere to hide.

If you could direct any play next, what would it be?

Another classic mystery or psychological thriller, something rich in atmosphere, moral ambiguity, and tension.

In one sentence, why should people come and see this production?

It’s a glamorous, immersive Agatha Christie mystery that invites you to lean forward, question everyone, and enjoy every delicious twist along the way.

By Simon Armes

13 February 2026