Taproot Theatre’s production of “Murder on the Links”, adapted for the stage by Steven Dietz from Agatha Christie’s classic novel, delivers a delightful, fast-paced take on the beloved detective genre. When the meticulous Hercule Poirot receives a frantic letter from a man in France begging for his help, he and his loyal companion, Captain Hastings, race to the French seaside, arriving only to find their would-be client murdered on a golf course. What follows is a twisting investigation into a cast of seemingly disconnected suspects, full of secrets, surprises, and even an unexpected love story. A thrilling story, great for teens and adults.
Nathan Brockett as Captain Hastings and Richard Nguyen Sloniker as Hercule Poirot in Taproot’s production of Murder on the Links (July 2025). (Image: Robert Wade)
How Taproot Brings Mystery to Life
Taproot’s staging masterfully manages the complexity of the plot by keeping things simple. The props are minimal, and the sets are arranged through the choreography of the six actors onstage, who also rotate through more than 25 characters by simply changing out hats and coats. Those costume shifts, happening onstage, become quicker and more frequent as the play progresses to comedic effect, leaving the audience focused on the energy of the performance, rather than bogging things down in elaborate outfits and scenery. The cast handles this rapid-fire approach with skill and humor, bringing both the mystery and the laughs to life.
Nathan Brockett as Captain Hastings and Richard Nguyen Sloniker as Hercule Poirot in Taproot’s production of Murder on the Links (July 2025). (Image: Robert Wade)
Why see “Murder on the Links” at Taproot Theater?
For audiences who appreciate Poirot’s deductive brilliance, with his signature smirk and impeccable mustache, this production offers the satisfying pleasure of watching others scramble to catch up. Fans of young sleuth stories like The Westing Game, Enola Holmes, and Flavia de Luce will love this production. Murder on the Links will keep you guessing and laughing and remind you that the joy of a good mystery lies not just in the solution but in the chase.
Luckily, the show has been extended through August 30th and runs approximately 2 hours with one 15-minute intermission. It takes place in Taproot’s Jewell Mainstage Theater in the Greenwood neighborhood. This cozy venue wraps the stage on three sides, keeping the audience within 30 feet of the actors for a truly immersive theater experience. The theater’s 226 seats include a small balcony with clear deck railings for unobstructed stage views.
Nathan Brockett as Captain Hastings and Claire Marx as Actor Four in Taproot’s production of Murder on the Links (July 2025). (Image: Robert Wade)
Know Before You Go
- Purchase tickets: Online at taproottheatre.org/murder, by phone at 206.781.9707, by email at mailto:box@taprootheatre.org or in-person at 204 N. 85th St., Seattle 98103
- Show runs through August 30, 2025
- Suitable for teens and up
- Runtime: 2 hours with one 15-minute intermission
- Price: $25–$62, dependent on performance date and time. Fees may apply.
- Discounts available for students, seniors, military, 25 & under, and TeenTix members.