A Century of Crime and Intrigue: Witness for the Prosecution Marks Milestone Anniversary
Today marks 100 years since Agatha Christie’s gripping short story Witness for the Prosecution—originally published as Traitor Hands—first appeared in print. A century later, Christie’s timeless tale of passion, betrayal, and justice continues to captivate audiences, with the acclaimed stage adaptation at London County Hall still playing to sellout crowds in its eighth year.
To commemorate this milestone, a special animated map highlighting key London locations from the play has been released, along with new cast photography taken at the Old Bailey, New Scotland Yard, and London County Hall—all iconic settings central to the story’s courtroom drama.
From Short Story to Cultural Phenomenon
Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution began as a short story published in Flynn’s Weekly, an American detective magazine, on 31 January 1925—just five years into Christie’s legendary career. The story was later retitled and republished in a collection of Christie’s short stories, quickly gaining notoriety for its shocking twists and compelling legal drama.
Its success led to multiple adaptations across radio, film, stage, and television, securing its place as one of Christie’s most celebrated works. The first stage production, adapted by Christie herself, premiered in 1953 at London’s Winter Garden Theatre. At the time, Christie was the only female playwright to have three plays running simultaneously in the West End.
In 1957, the story was brought to the big screen in Billy Wilder’s Oscar-nominated film, starring Tyrone Power, Marlene Dietrich, and Charles Laughton. Preview audiences were even asked to sign pledges promising not to reveal the ending, a testament to the story’s thrilling final twist.
Since then, Witness for the Prosecution has seen five television adaptations, including a 2016 BBC drama written by Sarah Phelps, which introduced the classic story to a new generation.
A Stage Adaptation That Puts the Audience in the Jury Box
The current stage production, produced by Eleanor Lloyd Productions and Rebecca Stafford Productions, has transformed London County Hall into a dramatic courtroom setting, immersing the audience in Christie’s high-stakes legal battle. Directed by Lucy Bailey, the production has received critical acclaim, earning Best Revival nominations at the 2018 Olivier and WhatsOnStage Awards.
Since its 2017 premiere, the play has remained one of London’s hottest tickets, drawing audiences eager to witness Leonard Vole’s desperate fight for justice.
The current cast includes:
• Ben Galvin as the accused, Leonard Vole
• Isabel Della-Porta as Romaine Vole
• Dugald Bruce-Lockhart as Sir Wilfrid Robarts QC
• Kriss Dosanjh as Mr Mayhew
• Michael Cochrane as Mr Justice Wainwright
• Robert Hands as Mr Myers QC
The production team features designer William Dudley, lighting designer Chris Davey, sound designer Mic Pool, and casting director Ellie Collyer-Bristow CDG.
A Living Legacy
Despite being a century old, Witness for the Prosecution remains as compelling as ever, proving that Agatha Christie’s genius for storytelling continues to stand the test of time.
With performances now booking until 28 September 2025, and a newly released London location map offering fans an interactive way to explore the story’s setting, the 100th anniversary of this courtroom classic is a celebration of its enduring appeal.
As audiences take their seats inside the grandeur of London County Hall, one thing remains certain—no one is prepared for the final twist.
For tickets and more information, visit [official website].
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