Stage adaptation of Agatha Christie classic takes killer off-the-rails approach

The Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre production of Murder on the Orient Express features Brian Perchaluk's art-deco locomotive set and a 30-foot revolving stage that moves scenes through train cars as Hercule Poirot investigates a passenger's murder.

Brian Perchaluk designed the locomotive set for a Royal Manitoba Theatre Centre production of Murder on the Orient Express, drawing on earlier experience working on CN Rail. The production dresses the Orient Express in art-deco detail and uses a 30-foot revolving stage to move scenes from station to dining car to sleeping car and observation deck. Director Kelly Thornton says the staging emphasizes both the train's luxury and an increasing sense of confinement as Hercule Poirot investigates a passenger's death. The production features Alex Poch Goldin as Poirot and a cast that includes Duchess Cayetano, Davina Stewart and Donna Fletcher. Production details: - Brian Perchaluk, who worked summers on CN Rail early in his career, designed the art-deco locomotive set. - The show uses a 30-foot revolving stage to shift scenes between station, dining car, sleeping car and observation deck. - Alex Poch Goldin plays Hercule Poirot; the cast includes Duchess Cayetano, Davina Stewart and Donna Fletcher. - At times the ensemble of 10 performers fits inside a six-by-seven sleeper car onstage. - Director Kelly Thornton highlights the contrast between the train's luxury and the tightening sense of confinement. - Perchaluk likens the production's precision to a Swiss watch. Summary: The set and staging aim to balance the Express's period luxury with growing claustrophobia, using continuous motion to shape the drama. The technical demands require close coordination among actors and stagecraft. Undetermined at this time.