Ruth Rendell’s ‘A Judgement in Stone’ – Orchard Theatre, Dartford 25.09.2017
It was another murder mystery for tonight’s press night at the Orchard Theatre, Ruth Rendell’s ‘A Judgement in Stone’. I was intrigued to know what surprises and twist this one had in store and whether I would be able to crack the case!
A Judgement in Stone is the classic novel from Ruth Rendell, adapted to the stage by Simon Brett and Antony Lampard. The tale’s focus of the finding of the killer of the Coverdale family, who were brutally murdered on valentines day evening at home. Housekeeper Eunice, a recent hired housekeeper discovers the bodies, in doing so inform the police. The play consists of two investigators putting together all the clues, questioning the staff hired by the family. Soon motives and answers being to unravel and someone story doesn’t up!
Now having seen recently another murder mystery, it was interesting to view a completely different take. Tonight’s viewing and way of performing was the past and the present, with split scenes of both the investigators and then stories of the Coverdale’s past leading up to the horrible night. The scenes did flow, and it was an interesting way of presenting the story, with the flashbacks and investigators coming and going. At times however the story drag at times which meant the story lacked the one edge atmosphere you usually have within a murder mystery grabbing the 
attention of the audience to what could be discovered next. One thing however I thought was clever was the reveal of the murder, now I wont spoil anything, but you always expect a twist at the end which usually means who you thought did it was way off to who it actually was. Throughout tonight’s performance I kept thinking its too easy to be that character, but was pleasantly surprised to find out I was wrong and right at the same time. Proving that this murder mystery still has a twist, with a little difference!
The cast perform tonight were:
Eunice Parchman – Sophie Ward
Detective Superintendant Vetch – Chris Ellison
Detective Sergeant Challoner – Ben Nealon
George Coverdale – Robert Duncan
Jacqueline Coverdale – Rosie Thomson
Eva Baalham – Shirely Anne Field
Roger Meadows- Antony Costa
Giles Mont – Joshua Price
Melinda Coverdale – Pamela Dwyer
Joan Smith – Deborah Grant
Now the most notable name to some would be that of Blue singer, Antony Costa, who drops the mic for a bit of acting as gardener Roger Meadows. Recently out on parole, Antony’s take on the Roger was strong in parts but lacked in others. His strong attitude and yet vulnerable side during in interrogation scene in Act two was greatly portrayed, but when he had his quieter moments he was quiet.
Sophie Ward as Eunice Parchman shone on stage, delivering a brilliant character throughout that had the audience love, sympathise, and feel an unease towards her also. She was fascinating to watch and unravel her character within the story. Her friend Joan Smith also played by Deborah Grant also was an 
elaborate, loud character. Twisted in more ways than one, you knew when she was on stage. Maybe at times it was too much, but I loved seeing her friendship unfold with Eunice, believing she did really want to look after her.
The rest of the cast performed well, unravelling the story with their hidden stories/motives. Giving the Detectives played by Chris Ellison, and Ben Nealon, a run for their money!
It was great to view a different take on a murder mystery and finally view one of Ruth Rendell’s classic on stage, it was an enjoyable night watching the story unfold. Whether I was right or wrong, you always come away thinking ‘I wasn’t expecting that.’ It has opened me to wanting to view future productions which I know will come!
A Judgement in Stone plays at the Orchard Theatre, Dartford until 30th September. For all ticket information go here. It will then continue on its UK tour, for further information go here. If you love a mystery, you will love this play!
