AUDIENCES were gripped from the very start during a performance of The Mousetrap.

Salisbury Playhouse was home to the world’s longest running stage production this week, Agatha Christie’s psychological thriller.

It’s not difficult to understand how the show has run for over 60 years – this classic murder mystery boasts an excellent script, vibrant characters and a dramatic twist which left the audience reeling.

The stage was set before the curtain had even been raised, opening to the sound of a shrill scream and calls for the police to visit the scene of a murder.

When the curtain did come up, it revealed a beautifully designed set modelled on a traditional country guest house, with wood panelling, a roaring fire and snow falling outside the window.

With a relatively small cast – eight characters – you’re able to take in each actor’s excellent attention to detail, down to the last hand movement or facial expression.

Nick Barclay and Anna Andresen (playing Giles and Mollie Ralston, owners of Monkswell Manor Guest House) introduce us to each character in turn, each expertly portrayed by members of the cast.

A special mention should be made of Oliver Gully, who played the excitable Christopher Wren in such a lively and entertaining way.

The Mousetrap is the last production in the Playhouse’s Spring/Summer season.

The production runs at Salisbury Playhouse until Saturday.

For tickets or more information call the box office on 01722 320333 or go to salisburyplayhouse.co.uk