Ten people stranded on an island — what could possibly go wrong? Maybe a private party? Or… murder!

Calvin Theatre Company (CTC) is back with another gripping play, this time unraveling the mystery of 10 guests who were all murdered on Soldier Island. Based on Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, the play follows these guests as they arrive on the island, only to find their host — who invited them separately through written letters — nowhere in sight. As tension rises, they slowly realize their lives are in grave danger and that they may not all make it off the island alive.

First published in 1939, And Then There Were None is famous for being a murder mystery with no detective. Its brilliant writing made it the best-selling mystery novel of all time, with over 100 million copies sold. This was also Agatha Christie’s first novel to be adapted into a play by herself. With its complex characters and intricate plot, delivering precise clues throughout the play is no easy feat — but CTC nailed it once again!

The 10 characters, portrayed by 10 talented students, are anything but superficial. Not only did these students have to memorize and perform the entire script, but they also nailed the Received Pronunciation British accents, adding an extra layer of authenticity to the story, as this story was originally set in England. The costumes deserve a special mention too — each character’s outfit was perfectly color-coordinated, making it feel like their wardrobe truly reflected their personality.

From the scarlet red dress of secretary Vera Claythorne (Liv Palmbos), highlighting her confident and bold personality, to the patterned blazers of William Blore (Cami Mauriello), reflecting his flashy character, and the monochromatic outfits of Judge Wargrave (Lindsey Gram), symbolizing his rigid, black-and-white thinking, each character stands out with a unique style. These distinct choices in wardrobe add another layer of depth to the mystery, making it even more intriguing to unravel.

The set design was impressive, effectively bringing the story to life. The living room, entrance, and stairs were all well-executed, with old Victorian couches that added a touch of class. The CTC tech team did an outstanding job with the sound and lighting, enhancing the atmosphere. The audience was fully immersed in the story, as the complex background and lighting transitions added depth. From the thunderstorm effects — both audio and visual — to the clear distinction between daylight and nighttime through the lighting projected to the white-washed background of the set, and the intense low-light moments during the plot’s climax, every detail was indeed carefully crafted.

The audience had fun playing detective, with gasps filling the auditorium after each murder. The final, subtle reaction towards the end of the play was a quiet acknowledgment of the story’s satisfying and unexpected twist.

And Then There Were None is truly a captivating story, and this CTC production is unlike any other. The play delivers an intense, gripping plot that dives deep into harsh realities, exposing uncomfortable truths, and exploring how individuals navigate the struggle for survival in such extreme circumstances.

Content warning: this production involves simulated gun shots, depiction of hanging, reference to suicide, and also involves strobe lights.