The Mousetrap
St Martin's TheatreAgatha Christie's legendary whodunnit has been keeping audiences guessing at the St Martin's Theatre since 1952. The world's longest-running play, The Mousetrap celebrated its 30,000th performance in March 2025 and holds a Guinness World Record for the longest theatrical run in history. Can you solve the mystery before the final curtain falls? Keep the secret!
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2 hours 15 minutes with interval
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What is The Mousetrap about?
A group of strangers are cut off by snow in a remote countryside guesthouse when a policeman arrives with shocking news: a murderer is on the loose, and all the evidence points to someone in the house. As suspicion mounts and secrets are revealed, the tension builds to one of theatre's most famous twist endings. For over 70 years, audiences have kept the secret of whodunnit.
How long has The Mousetrap been running?
The Mousetrap opened in the West End on 25 November 1952 and is now in its 73rd year. It has been performed over 30,000 times - a milestone reached in March 2025 when it received a Guinness World Record for the longest continuous theatrical run. The play has been seen by over 10 million people in London alone. It moved to the St Martin's Theatre in 1974, where it continues to this day.
Who wrote The Mousetrap?
The Mousetrap was written by Agatha Christie, the best-selling novelist of all time after The Bible. The story began as a radio play called 'Three Blind Mice', written as a birthday present for Queen Mary in 1947. Christie gave the stage play rights to her nine-year-old grandson, Matthew Prichard, as a birthday gift - a present that turned out to be worth millions.
Is The Mousetrap scary?
The Mousetrap is a classic murder mystery rather than a horror play. There's tension and suspense, but it's suitable for most ages. The thrill comes from trying to work out who the murderer is before the reveal. It's more Agatha Christie cosy crime than genuinely frightening - perfect for fans of murder mystery stories.
What are the best seats for The Mousetrap?
The St Martin's Theatre is an intimate venue, so most seats offer good views. The Stalls provide the most immersive experience, while the Dress Circle offers an excellent overview of the stage. Being able to see the actors' expressions adds to the mystery-solving experience.
Should I see The Mousetrap or Witness for the Prosecution?
Both are Agatha Christie classics with devoted followings. The Mousetrap is the traditional theatre experience - a classic whodunnit in a beautiful historic venue. Witness for the Prosecution offers a more immersive experience in the stunning County Hall setting. True Christie fans often see both!
Know before you go
What age is The Mousetrap suitable for?
The Mousetrap is recommended for ages 7 and above. Children under 4 will not be admitted to the St Martin's Theatre. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. All children must have their own ticket.
How long is The Mousetrap?
The performance runs for approximately 2 hours, including one interval.
Is there a tradition at The Mousetrap?
Yes! At the end of each performance, the cast asks the audience to keep the identity of the murderer a secret. This tradition has been maintained for over 70 years - please don't spoil it for future audiences!
Visitor guidelines
Can teenagers attend The Mousetrap alone?
Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at the St Martin's Theatre.
What happens if I arrive late to The Mousetrap?
Latecomers will be admitted at a suitable break in the performance. However, in a mystery play, missing the opening scenes means missing vital clues!
Can I take photos at The Mousetrap?
Photography and video recording are not permitted during the performance.
Cast and creatives
Who is in The Mousetrap London cast?
The current London cast features Georgina Fairbanks as Mollie Ralston, Cai Brigden as Giles Ralston, Joshua Riley as Christopher Wren, Nicky Goldie as Mrs Boyle, Christopher Wright as Major Metcalf, Kate Handford as Miss Casewell, Stephen Ventura as Mr Paravicini, and Thomas Dennis as Detective Sergeant Trotter.
Who directs The Mousetrap?
The Mousetrap is now directed by Ola Ince, who joined the production in November 2025 to refresh the world's longest-running play while honouring its traditions. The production is produced by Brian Fenty.
Awards
What records has The Mousetrap broken?
The Mousetrap holds the Guinness World Record for the longest theatrical run in history. In March 2025, it celebrated its 30,000th performance in London. It has been the longest-running show in the West End since September 1957. Over 400 actors have played the eight roles since 1952, and the original run featured Richard Attenborough as Detective Sergeant Trotter.
Opening times
Evenings: 7.30pm Mon – Sat Matinees: 2.30pm Wed & Sat
Frequently asked questions
How long is The Mousetrap including interval?
The Mousetrap runs for approximately 2 hours, including one interval.
Is The Mousetrap suitable for children?
Yes, The Mousetrap is recommended for ages 7 and above. It's a classic murder mystery without graphic content - a great introduction to Agatha Christie for young mystery fans.
Where is The Mousetrap playing in London?
The Mousetrap plays at the St Martin's Theatre, West Street, London WC2H 9NZ. The nearest tube station is Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines).
What time does The Mousetrap start?
Evening performances are Monday to Saturday at 7:30pm. Matinee performances are Tuesday and Saturday at 3pm.
Will there be a film of The Mousetrap?
Under the original contract, no film can be made while the play runs in the West End - which is why there's never been a movie adaptation. Given the play's continued success, that tradition looks set to continue!
In St Martin's Theatre
Venue address
West Street WC2H 9NZ
Seating plan
Access
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS:
Wheelchair spaces available.
Are there adapted toilets?
An adapted toilet is available in the Dress Circle.
ASSISTED PERFORMANCES:Are there facilities for the hard-of-hearing?
There is an infrared system working throughout the auditorium. Signed and captioned performances available.
Are guide dogs and/or hearing dogs permitted?
Access dogs are allowed inside the auditorium. Staff dog-sitting available.
Please contact the theatre directly for further information.
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