Peril in the Alps Review

From the moment the cast enthusiastically bounded onto the stage, one sensed that Peril in the Alps by Steven Dietz was going to be a fun-filled ride of danger and intrigue, especially with that crafty detective, Hercule Poirot, unraveling the international mystery.

This two-hour play (one intermission) opens in London in 1925  and ends in the Swiss Alps. Through it all, Poirot observes, ponders and concludes, always getting to the heart of the matter, or as he says, “trace the web to its center.”

Poirot, played by actor Omri Schein, is a Belgian detective with his own unique style and appearance – mustache, dark suit, vest, watch chain, hat, highly polished shoes, hands behind his back. He oozes quiet confidence and wisdom. “I am a humble servant,” says Poirot. “My hobby includes the study of crime.”

As Poirot unravels the mysterious death – just as he did in Murder on the Links two years ago at the North Coast Rep – he deals with five actors and actresses as they assume different roles.

“Most people see but they don’t observe,” says Poirot, also noting that, “Everything is impossible until the moment it happens.”

The other characters are just as engaging, often playing different roles, including that of Captain Hastings, who helps Poirot find the bad person.

This world premier is at the North Coast Repertory Theatre through May 18.

Martin Kruming is a retired journalist, attorney and SDSU instructor.