Review: Murder Trial Tonight at Parr Hall

There are some truly special theatres throughout the UK.  Only last week, we were seated inside the iconic London Palladium for Elio Pace and the Billy Joel Songbook.

Before that, we were at The Bridgewater Hall for January Butler, and of course, we’re always happy to trek across Manchester for a night at The Opera House or Palace Theatre.

But last night felt like a homecoming of sorts – a return to the lovely Parr Hall in Warrington, a venue that always holds a special place for me.

Think about it: over the last century, this grand old hall has welcomed everyone from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to The Rolling Stones, The Who and even, Tina Turner.

You can almost feel the history woven into the very brickwork of the building. It’s a venue bursting with character, warmth and local pride – and one I always look forward to visiting.

Now I’ll admit, Murder Trial Tonight: Death of a Landlord wasn’t a production that instantly grabbed me from the playbill.

But a chance meeting at Euston Station last week with one of the show’s stars – the wonderful Anna-Maria Everett, persuaded Smithy and me to take our seats alongside an eager, packed-out “jury” at Parr Hall last night.

And by the end, it was perfectly clear why this immersive courtroom drama is now in its fourth season, with a loyal and ever-growing following. I’m now officially hooked.

Having been called for jury service twice myself (yes, twice – some might say unlucky!), I entered the “courtroom” with a few expectations.

The setting didn’t disappoint. The paneled-wood set looked remarkably authentic and the company of actors were nothing short of convincing.

After all, real trials have their share of theatrical flair – barristers conducting their examinations with flourish and intensity – so the leap from courtroom to stage feels entirely natural here.

This particular case focused on the shocking murder of Victor Sloane – a father, businessman and landlord.

Throughout the trial, the audience-turned-jury hangs on every word of testimony, every line of questioning, straining to decide between guilt and innocence.

It’s a clever and completely engaging format: as close as you’ll ever get to taking part in a real trial, but without the paperwork or the pressure of a real verdict.

The cast delivered a superb ensemble performance

It almost feels unfair to single anyone out – but I’m unashamedly giving a nod to my best-new celebrity friend Anna-Maria Everett, who brought such sincerity and emotional gravity to her role as a witness, perfectly capturing the daunting experience of taking the stand.

Karren Winchester, as Her Honour Judge Amanda Livingstone KC, was equally compelling – delivering the role with authority, elegance and just the right twinkle of humour.

Cathy Walker’s turn as the court usher provided some perfectly timed light relief, while rising star Alpha Kamara offered a nuanced, quietly powerful portrayal of the defendant – on stage for the entire performance, his vulnerability and emotion never faltering.

When it came time for closing statements, the atmosphere in the hall shifted – suddenly, we weren’t just spectators anymore. It was our job to deliberate.

Conversations broke out across the room, with fellow audience members debating evidence like true legal experts. Behind us, two delightful Miss Marple–type amateur sleuths had quite the spirited disagreement.

In keeping with courtroom tradition, a foreman of the jury was needed to deliver the verdict.

It just so happens I’ve had the honour in real courts twice before, so it felt only right to step up to the witness box once again.

My arrival prompted an unexpected ripple of laughter, fuelled by a friendly shout of recognition from the audience and my own bemused expression – which, if I’m honest, only added to the fun.

But the verdict itself? I couldn’t possibly say!

As every good juror knows, what happens in deliberation stays in deliberation. You’ll have to attend the next performance and decide for yourself.

Murder Trial Tonight is a brilliantly executed piece of interactive theatre

It’s smart, original and authentic enough to satisfy even the most seasoned legal mind – yet entertaining and immersive enough to captivate anyone who simply loves a night of engaging drama.

This isn’t theatre that leaves you smiling – it leaves you impressed, engaged and wanting more. A triumphant evening at the ever-charismatic Parr Hall.

• The current series of Murder Trial Tonight: Death of a Landlord runs across the UK until July 2026
• Information and tickets from Murder Trial Tonight

With sincere thanks to listener Adrian Bull for the photos!