A Century of Deception, Drama, and Courtroom Intrigue
LONDON – 31 January 2025 – One of Agatha Christie’s most celebrated works, Witness for the Prosecution, marks its 100th anniversary today. First published in 1925 as Traitor Hands, the gripping short story of murder, betrayal, and courtroom drama has been adapted for stage, film, television, and radio, securing its place as one of Christie’s most enduring tales.
To celebrate a century of shocking twists, the producers of the acclaimed stage production at London County Hall have released a special animated map, highlighting key London locations featured in the play. Additionally, new cast photography has been unveiled, capturing the ensemble at historic sites including the Old Bailey, New Scotland Yard, and London County Hall.
From Short Story to Theatrical Masterpiece
Originally published in Flynn’s Weekly, an American detective magazine, on 31 January 1925, Traitor Hands was later retitled Witness for the Prosecution and included in a collection of Christie’s short stories. Its compelling mix of legal drama and psychological suspense led to widespread acclaim and a series of adaptations across various media.
In 1953, Christie adapted the story into a stage play, which premiered at London’s Winter Garden Theatre. The production was an instant hit, running for over a year and further cementing Christie’s reputation as a master playwright. At the time, she was the only female playwright in history to have three plays running simultaneously in the West End.
The story reached Hollywood in 1957 with a now-iconic film adaptation directed by Billy Wilder. Starring Tyrone Power, Marlene Dietrich, and Charles Laughton, the film became an instant classic, earning six Academy Award nominations. Preview audiences were even required to sign a pledge not to reveal the ending, underscoring the story’s legendary final twist.
Over the decades, Witness for the Prosecution has been adapted for television five times, most recently in 2016 by BBC screenwriter Sarah Phelps, bringing the story to a new generation of viewers.
The London County Hall Production: An Immersive Courtroom Experience
Since 2017, the current stage production of Witness for the Prosecution has transformed London County Hall into a breathtakingly realistic courtroom setting, placing the audience in the heart of the action.
Directed by Lucy Bailey, the play’s thrilling performances and immersive staging have sold out night after night, earning nominations for Best Revival at the 2018 Olivier and WhatsOnStage Awards.
Now in its eighth year, the production continues to captivate audiences, with performances booking through 28 September 2025. The current cast includes:
• Ben Galvin as Leonard Vole
• Isabel Della-Porta as Romaine Vole
• Dugald Bruce-Lockhart as Sir Wilfrid Robarts QC
• Michael Cochrane as Mr Justice Wainwright
• Kriss Dosanjh as Mr Mayhew
• Robert Hands as Mr Myers QC
A Century of Suspense—And More to Come
With its 100th anniversary celebration, a new interactive London locations map, and continued success at London County Hall, Witness for the Prosecution remains as gripping, dramatic, and relevant as ever.
As the production enters its second century, Agatha Christie’s courtroom classic continues to prove one thing: no one sees the final twist coming.
For tickets and further information, visit www.witnesscountyhall.com.
