The best way I can describe TheatreWorks Silicon Valley’s “Mrs. Christie” is “Barbie” meets “Dear Evan Hansen,” subtract the musical numbers, add a live dog.
Now, if you haven’t watched “Barbie” or “Dear Evan Hansen” (and if you haven’t watched either, that’s on your to-do list, second only to watching “Mrs. Christie”), allow me to explain my reasoning.
Written by Heidi Armbruster and directed by Giovanna Sardelli, TheatreWorks’ “Mrs. Christie” is a captivating, thought-provoking, humorous, dark and tear-inducing experience with themes of suicide, grief and female empowerment.
The play juxtaposes, and eventually blends, the timelines of 1920s famous mystery writer Agatha Christie, played by Jennifer Le Blanc, and modern-day Christie fan Lucy, played by Nicole Javier. It’s a story of self-discovery, female friendship and being brave enough to give yourself a second chance.
The plot is not dissimilar to the 2023 live-action film “Barbie,” which presents, and eventually blends, storylines from both the Barbie and human world – where we also see themes of self-discovery and female empowerment. In “Mrs. Christie,” the bond between Christie and her secretary Charlotte is what prevents Christie from taking her own life, demonstrating the profound impact female friendships can have.
“Every woman deserves a second act,” Christie says to Lucy when their timelines intersect in Act II of the play.
The “second act” Christie is referring to is a second chance at life. Both Christie and Lucy are dealing with the recent loss of loved ones, and both make suicide attempts. Early in the play, Lucy tries to hang herself from a chandelier, and, not long after, both Christie and Lucy contemplate overdosing on pills. Later in the play, Christie tries to drown herself. Yet these suicide attempts are all conducted in a strangely comedic way – similar to how “Dear Evan Hansen” is both a dark yet comedic musical that deals with grief and suicide in a lighthearted manner.
I should note that “Barbie,” “Dear Evan Hansen” and “Mrs. Christie” all made me cry. So, if you’ve cried watching the first two, I’d recommend bringing along a tissue for “Mrs. Christie” (and consider wearing waterproof mascara).
Now that I’ve explained how “Mrs. Christie” reminds me of “Barbie” and “Dear Evan Hansen,” let’s talk about the dog (as I’m sure that’s really what you want to hear about). Yes, there is a live dog on stage playing the role of Peter – and he makes two separate appearances. Anubis, the pup playing Peter, was seemingly very excited to be on stage – tail wagging exuberantly, he had some difficulties with following directions (but I guess I should cut him some slack considering it was opening night).
In addition to being impressed with superb acting with minor mishaps (there was one slip-and-fall incident), I was entranced by the set and lighting design. The bookshelves were detailed, the fireplace ornate and the use of lighting to transition between timelines was a genius touch. There’s a swimming scene where Le Blanc is actually in a pool of water, so you can see and hear the water as she splashes around. This is a high-quality production that doesn’t skimp on set, costumes or props, making the audience feel transported into another world.
TheatreWorks’ “Mrs. Christie” is a thoughtful, well-executed experience that will make you feel a wide range of emotions – from belly laughs to tears. And you absolutely don’t have to be an Agatha Christie superfan to enjoy.
TheatreWorks Silicon Valley’s “Mrs. Christie” runs through Oct. 29 at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts. For showtimes and tickets, visit theatreworks.org/mainstage/mrs-christie.
Adrienne Mitchel is a Town Crier staff writer. Email her at [email protected].
