REVIEW: Miami’s ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ is Right on Track
The scenic design by Gion DeFrancesco (assisted by Isaiah Serra), lighting by Sarah Finke and Marly Wooster, sound by Cailin McWethy, and costuming by Lisa
November 25, 2025
The scenic design by Gion DeFrancesco (assisted by Isaiah Serra), lighting by Sarah Finke and Marly Wooster, sound by Cailin McWethy, and costuming by Lisa
Exceptional scene design, masterful direction, and a stellar cast make this whodunnit a thrilling ride.
The script blends personal history with civic reflection, provoking audible reactions from the audience as questions of rights and interpretation unfold.
The inspired choice to weave in a 1960s and ‘70s musical “score” (arranged and directed by Max Kaufman) deepens the emotional resonance and rebellion at
The Performances
All of the students do an excellent job at portraying their roles. The cast of Trifles really sells the circumstances and the coldness
‘How do we wield power and who becomes subjugated under it? What does it mean to literally or metaphorically “murder” someone?’
Peter and the Starcatcher at Miami University is a wonderful reimagining of the story we know so well. With the Miami students who exude enthusiasm
This is a great opportunity to see a modernized version of a medieval morality play. It is not preachy. At times it is very funny.
Don’t miss this unique and wonderful journey into storytelling magic when it comes back in 2026.
The scenic design by Gion DeFrancesco (assisted by Isaiah Serra), lighting by Sarah Finke and Marly Wooster, sound by Cailin McWethy, and costuming by Lisa Martin-Stuart form some of the most polished production values I’ve seen at Miami.
Michael Hatton’s charming vision and expertise is found in every choice made in this show. Jacob Priddy as Music Director has arranged an excellent score of Christmas music and most of them period accurate.