Review – Death on the Nile – Theatre Royal Brighton and National Tour

Death on the Nile has long been celebrated as one of the Agatha Christie’s most intricate and atmospheric mysteries, and the 2026 theatre touring production proves that this classic still has the power to captivate modern audiences. From the moment the curtain rises at The Theatre Royal in Brighton, the production immerses the audience in a world of glamour, intrigue, and simmering tension, delivering an experience that feels both faithful to Christie’s original vision and refreshingly alive.

The staging is immediately striking. The set design, by Mike Britton, cleverly evokes the elegance of a 1930s Nile cruise, balancing period detail with fluid transitions that keep the narrative moving at a brisk, engaging pace. Rather than relying on overly elaborate scenery, the production uses lighting and subtle shifts in staging to suggest different locations along the river journey. This approach not only keeps the focus on the characters and their relationships but also enhances the sense of claustrophobia that is so essential to the story. As the mystery unfolds, the confined setting becomes a pressure cooker of suspicion and secrets.

The performances are universally excellent, with the actors bringing both depth and nuance to a wide array of characters. They embrace the heightened theatricality of Christie’s world without tipping into caricature, which is no small achievement given the colourful personalities involved. The portrayal of Hercule Poirot is particularly noteworthy—precise, witty, and quietly commanding. Rather than playing him as merely eccentric, Mark Hadfield finds a compelling balance between charm and sharp intellect, making Poirot both entertaining and genuinely formidable as a detective.

Equally impressive are Libby Alexandra-Cooper as Linnet Ridgeway, who makes her professional debut in this production, Esme Hough as Jacqueline De Bellefort and, completing the ill-fated “love triangle”, Nye Occomore as Simon Doyle. Alongside them, the supporting cast all deliver superb performances with everyone on stage displaying the consummate skill required to maintain the tension throughout the piece.

Even those familiar with the plot will find themselves drawn into the unfolding drama, thanks to superb layering of suspicion and emotional complexity. Relationships feel authentic, motivations are clearly defined, and the gradual revelation of secrets is handled with care. The many moments of humour are well-placed, and never undermine the darker undertones of the story, creating a satisfying balance.

Lucy Bailey’s direction deserves special praise for its clarity and confidence. The pacing is expertly judged, allowing the narrative to breathe while ensuring that the mystery never loses momentum. Key revelations land with impact, and the final act delivers a resolution that is both intellectually satisfying and emotionally resonant. The director clearly understands the mechanics of Christie’s storytelling, guiding the audience through the intricate web of clues without ever making it feel overly complicated.

Costume design further enhances the production, with elegant period attire that reinforces the sense of time and place. Each character’s wardrobe reflects their personality and social status, adding another layer of storytelling without drawing unnecessary attention away from the action. Combined with a subtle yet effective sound design, the overall atmosphere is rich and immersive.

What truly sets this show apart, however, is its ability to make a familiar story feel fresh. Rather than simply presenting a nostalgic retelling, the performance highlights the timeless qualities of Christie’s work—jealousy, ambition, love, and betrayal—making them feel relevant to contemporary audiences. The result is a show that appeals to both longtime fans of the novel and newcomers encountering the story for the first time.

This production of Death on the Nile achieves exactly what great theatre should: it transports, entertains, and engages. It is a polished, intelligent, and thoroughly enjoyable evening that showcases the enduring brilliance of Agatha Christie’s storytelling. Anyone with a love of mystery will find much to admire in this production, which stands as a testament to the continuing appeal of one of the Queen of Crime’s most beloved works.

*****   Five Stars