If you love Poirot or if you know David Suchet's other work, you are bound to enjoy this evening. However, even those not familiar with his career will find this memoir a fascinating look into the life of an amazingly gifted actor and an intriguing peek into the craft of acting. In this rehearsed conversation with Geoffrey Wansell, we share David Suchet's initiation into the world of the theatre and are regaled with personal anecdotes that are often humorous, and frequently touching. The father's reticence about his son's determination to go on the stage is more than matched by a mother's unflagging, and often amusing, support. The stories give us a heartfelt insight into the making of David Suchet as an actor, and this understanding is complemented by a look at how an actor comes to create and inhabit a character. Suchet offers a masterclass in how to read Shakespeare so that bard's view of his characters emerges. He also provides some engrossing glimpses into how how he built his alter ego, Hercule Poirot. The development of Suchet's definitive interpretation of the little Belgian detective is totally fascinating. What the show may have lacked in spontaneity was more than made up for by the polished nature of the production. Indeed, this is an evening not to be missed by anyone interested in the craft of acting or the growth of a consummate actor. Come prepared to laugh and also ready to use your little grey cells!
Rated: ★★★★
Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Ash Koek.
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