The West Valley Playhouse’s version of Black Coffee is a strong and enjoyable rendition of the classic Agatha Christie mystery. Soon after its English debut in London, Black Coffee became a favorite among theatergoers and helped to establish Christie as a playwright where she had previously been known primarily as a novelist. Her style would go on to inspire countless writers and her accomplishments have continued long past her own death.
Black Coffee is one of the “Hercule Poirot Mysteries” - the irresistible detective character who outgrew the plays he was written into. This story starts as one might generally expect: with a house, a gathering and intrigue already afoot. The home is that of Sir Claude Amory, and the group is a mix of characters, many of whom already have a cloud of suspicion hovering over them. Richard Amory, Claude’s son, is recently returned from a trip abroad with his young, attractive, Italian wife, Lucia. The accusatory eye of suspicion focuses well on this exotic couple as the action is heightened and the mystery grows. A would-be explosive innovator, the elder Amory is tough as rawhide, and when his new formula disappears, he is determined to protect his legacy. In addition to his son and daughter-in-law, the other possible suspects include his niece, Barbara Amory, Miss Caroline Amory, and the strange Edward Raynor. Add to the eclectic crowd a larger than life retired detective, his sidekick, Capt. Arthur Hastings, and Inspector Japp, and you have the makings of a story that is prototypical Christie.
Jon Berry directs a highly capable ensemble cast with great attention to detail. The able cast includes fine performances all around. Among the standouts are Daniel Krause, Tom Starko, and Paul Nieman. The set and costumes leap out from the moment the lights go up, and the story is told with seamless continuity, producing a well-paced show that is highly enjoyable. The sound, lights and technical aspects of this production are suitable for the space, and the playhouse itself is a unique and desirable venue. It is, however, the story and words of Agatha Christie combined with the overall cohesive cast performance that keeps this production brewing with fun.
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