On Theater: You’ll want to ‘Witness’ how this one ends
Theatergoers who haven’t seen Billy Wilder’s 1957 movie “Witness for the Prosecution” will be highly engrossed by the stage version of Agatha Christie’s chilling courtroom drama now on view at the Newport Theatre Arts Center. Even those who saw it and remember its stunning climax probably will still be impressed.
Director Kathy Paladino, new to the center but hardly new to theater, delivers a compelling rendition of the British suspenser notable for its “Christie twistie” after the jury has reached its verdict. For the benefit of future first-time audiences, more details will not be available here.
Set in London shortly after World War II, “Witness” focuses on a seemingly cut-and-dried murder case involving a young, unemployed fellow accused of killing the older woman who had changed her will to leave him a fortune. A fierce courtroom battle ensues, pitting the suspect’s aging attorney against a shrewd younger prosecutor.
At Newport, Paladino casts the front row of the audience as the jury, giving the actors ample motivation for playing their dialogue downstage. This being England, the fellow in the dock is referred to as the “prisoner” rather than the “defendant,” which would seem to prejudice the case a bit.
Casey Wiggins enacts the accused man with a torturous case of nervous energy, writhing and protesting as his fate appears darker with each passing development and protesting audibly in court when he should be silent. His mission is to induce our (jury and audience) sympathies, and he succeeds admirably.
His German-born wife, whose importance to the outcome increases dramatically, is superbly rendered by Gina Garrison, whose icy demeanor puzzles the defense lawyers while actually planting a crucial seed in the plot. It’s a tricky role, beautifully performed by this versatile actress.
The lone troublesome spot among the central figures is Larry Creagan’s tentative portrayal of the knighted barrister and counsel for the defense. While steadfast in bearing and characterization, Creagan loses traction with his uneven delivery, particularly in key situations.
His opposite number, the prosecutor, is expertly handled by Rick Kopps as a serpentine predator stalking the courtroom awaiting an opportunity to pounce. Bob Fetes scores as the knowledgeable, and stern, presiding judge, while Bill Paxon is a credible assistant for the defense.
A particularly powerful cameo is delivered by Tamra Talbert as the elderly housekeeper of the victim, her Scottish dogmatism often overpowering her inquisitors. Juli Cuccia makes the most of her minor role as the defense counsel’s secretary, cracking wise and slyly absconding with her employer’s hidden liquor bottles.
The cast numbers nearly 20 actors, many filling silent assignments to add authenticity. Leah Moore offers a bit of color late in the proceedings as a character who shouldn’t be identified here.
The courtroom setting, by designer Andrew Otero, is a particular plus, partially elevated for maximum viewership. Adam Mahan’s lighting is highly effective, as are the period costumes designed by Claudia Berglund and Mary dePaoli.
While nearly six decades old, Agatha Christie’s “Witness for the Prosecution” remains one of our finest — and most startling — courtroom dramas, unfolding with a strong sense of immediacy at the Newport Theatre Arts Center.
TOM TITUS reviews local theater for the Daily Pilot.
If You Go
What: “Witness for the Prosecution”
Where: Newport Theatre Arts Center, 2501 Cliff Drive, Newport Beach
When: 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays until Feb. 22
Cost: $16
Information: (949) 631-0288 or https://www.ntaconline.com
