Set aboard a luxurious cruise in 1930s Egypt, Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile is a classic Poirot mystery filled with charismatic characters, hidden secrets, and, of course, murder.
Following the sell-out tour of Murder on the Orient Express, this production reunites the talents of writer Ken Ludwig, director Lucy Bailey, and Fiery Angel, delivering another gripping stage adventure.
Mark Hadfield (Belfast; Outlander; Wallander) brings warmth and sharp wit to the role of Belgian detective Hercule Poirot, earning plenty of laughs from the audience. He is joined by Glynis Barber (EastEnders) as the glamorous Salome Otterbourne. Meanwhile, Bob Barrett (Murder on the Orient Express; Holby City) proves a surprising standout as MI5 agent Colonel Race, infusing the role with charm and a welcome sense of lightness.
Libby Alexandra-Cooper is absolutely captivating as the rich heiress Linnet Ridgeway, bringing an ethereal presence to the role, while Esme Hough plays a very convincing villain in Jacqueline de Bellefort, the jilted lover determined to disrupt her honeymoon.
One of the show’s standout features is its impressive set design. The two-tiered stage cleverly represents the ship’s upper and lower decks, while movable wooden screens reveal the interiors of each character’s cabin, adding depth, fluidity, and visual intrigue. The opening scene, set at a party in the British Museum, establishes the tone beautifully, with moody lighting, flickering flames along the walls, and a striking full-size sarcophagus creating a memorable visual impact. As the characters’ backstories unfold, the use of sound is particularly effective—music drifting in from neighbouring rooms adds an extra layer of ambience and atmosphere.
The production does feel slightly top-heavy, with a longer first half giving way to a shorter second act that leaves limited time to fully resolve the story, making the conclusion feel somewhat rushed. Nevertheless, this is a splendid rendition of a classic mystery, and it certainly whets the appetite for what Lucy Bailey and Fiery Angel will bring next with Agatha Christie’s The Hollow, coming to the Grand Opera House later this year.
Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile is running at Belfast’s Grand Opera House until 2nd May 2026. To book tickets or find out more information, please click here.
