Verdict Open

UPSTAIRS Downstairs legend Susan Penhaligon leads an all-star cast in an Agatha Christie Theatre Company’s production of the compelling drama Verdict, which opens at Leeds Grand Theatre on Monday August 15.

"As always with Christie, there are murderous intentions afoot, so it only remains to be seen what verdict will be delivered and if justice will prevail."

First written and performed in 1958, Verdict is one of the few original plays by the ‘Queen of Crime’ not based on one of her numerous novels or short stories. It premiered in the West End in May 1958 running for 250 performances, before later going on to open in New York and Luxembourg.

The play focuses on the brilliant and idealistic Professor Karl Hendryk who leads a content and morally upstanding life after having been forced to flee persecution in his home country.

But his world is turned upside-down when the prospect of life-saving treatment for his wife persuades him to take on a new pupil against his better judgement, and the spoilt, conniving minx Helen who will stop at nothing to get her way.

As always with Christie, there are murderous intentions afoot, so it only remains to be seen what verdict will be delivered and if justice will prevail.

The cast is headed by Susan Penhaligon, famed for her television roles in Upstairs Downstairs and turbulent Yorkshire soap Emmerdale. She is joined on stage by Robert Duncan (oily Gus Hedges in Drop the Dead Donkey), Lyndon Ogbourne (Emmerdale’s Nathan Wylde), Peter Byrne (Dixon of Dock Green), Elizabeth Power (EastEnders) Holly Goss, Cassie Raine, Andrew Malkin, Mark Martin and 60’s pop idol Mark Wynter.

• Tickets are on sale now for at Leeds Grand Theatre price from £14 to £27.50 and it runs until Saturday August 20. 
• Book by calling Box Office on 0844 848 2705 or online at www.leedsgrandtheatre.com