By Afshin Razi
The Miami University Theatre production of Murder on the Orient Express gives fans of the world-famous Detective Hercule Poirot the chance to see the iconic character brilliantly realized on stage in a mystery that keeps the audience guessing right up until the final, shocking revelation.
The History and Themes Behind the Mystery
The eccentric Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot, is a creation of the English writer Agatha Christie, appearing in dozens of novels and numerous short stories published between 1920 and 1975. Written and set in 1934, the iconic novel Murder on the Orient Express was adapted into a stage play by American playwright Ken Ludwig in 2015 at the request of the Agatha Christie Estate. It premiered in 2017. The work has since been performed at many theaters in the United States and internationally.
The story opens with the detective vacationing in Istanbul after a grueling case. When an urgent request calls him back to England, he secures a last-minute spot on the legendary Orient Express train. What begins as an ordinary journey takes a dramatic turn when a snowstorm halts the train in a remote area. Even more troubling, an American businessman is discovered stabbed to death in his locked compartment. With the killer still aboard, Poirot must immediately solve this crime before the perpetrator can potentially strike again.
Hercule Poirot is motivated by a profound belief in order, logic, and justice, viewing murder as a rupture in the world’s moral balance that must be corrected. Yet this case complicates those ideals. As Poirot’s investigation unfolds, compassion, grief, and human vulnerability blur the neat lines that normally guide his judgment. The conflict between his precise, rational mind and his unexpectedly sympathetic heart becomes the emotional core of the story, heightening the impact of the final reveal.
A Case of Inspired Casting
Murder mysteries juggle a lot—motives, clues, shifting timelines. With audiences accustomed to fast, bite-sized entertainment, confusion or boredom can creep in quickly during a two-hour complex story arc (not only fellow college students). Only a strong cast can transform dense exposition into natural, compelling drama that keeps the viewer fully engaged.
Thankfully, this production has a phenomenal ensemble that accomplishes exactly that. Every member of the large cast is impressive and deserves recognition, but two standout performances are worth highlighting: Max Kaufman is a force of nature in the role of Detective Hercule Poirot. His mannerisms, walk, and expressions are deliberate and layered, making the character endlessly compelling. Preston Angus is superb as Monsieur Bouc, delivering a precise accent and understated humor. His warm charm plays beautifully against Poirot’s meticulous intensity.
Flawless Execution, Thanks to a Killer Production Team
Under the confident and assured direction of Bekka Eaton, the production leans fully into the suspense, and humor of Ken Ludwig’s adaptation, guiding the audience through each revelation with clean pacing and a sharp instinct for storytelling.
The scenic design by Gion DeFrancesco is particularly striking. Inspired by Japanese puzzle boxes and the Art Deco marquetry of the original Orient Express, the set shifts fluidly between locations, using sliding panels, geometric patterns, and rich wood textures to evoke both elegance and mystery.
The technical skill on display is exceptional. From the atmospheric fog and haze that announce the train’s arrival to the strobe effects that imitate the flicker of passing tracks, the show offers immediate proof of the caliber of the technical program at Miami.
Lighting designers Sarah Finke and Marly Wooster draw from early Hollywood noir and Art Deco palettes. They bathe the stage in moody colors and sharp contrasts that track the psychological tension of the storyline. Lisa Martin-Stuart’s costumes capture the tailored sophistication of 1930s European travel. Each character shows period accuracy while offering subtle clues to their identities and backgrounds. Caitlin McWethy’s sound design adds depth with a blend of vintage jazz, contemporary tracks, and era-inspired rhythms. An ideal backdrop for a tense mystery.
Final Verdict
Miami University Theatre’s Murder on the Orient Express is a ride well worth taking.
It is an expertly executed production with standout performances, impeccable design, and direction that keeps the suspense taut and engaging. Fans of classic detective tales or anyone who appreciates ambitious student theatre should not miss the chance to board this Orient Express before it leaves the station.
Tickets to Murder on the Orient Express
Murder on the Orient Express runs through Sunday, November 23, 2025 at Miami’s Gates-Abegglen Theatre. Purchase tickets online HERE or by contacting the Miami Box Office at 513-529-3200.
RUNNING TIME: Approx. 2 hrs, including a 15-minute intermission.
