Agatha Christie’s “The Stranger” premiers at The Black Box Theatre on Friday, March 14, 2025. The location is 1623 5th Avenue, Moline, IL. The format is similar to a live, radio show production from the 1930s or 1940s.
“The Stranger” is an adaptation of Christie’s own short story, “Philomel Cottage,” which was published in 1924. The play was never published or performed in Christie’s lifetime, but it was established as having been written at least by 1932. The play script was used together with the short story, as the basis for the stage play adaptation, made by Frank Vosper in 1936, entitled “Love from a Stranger.”
The show features Jane Simonsen, James Driscoll, Cole McFarren, Avalon Willowbloom, Storm Marie Baca, and Dee Canfield. Direction and design are by The Black Box Artistic Director, Lora Adams. “I am thrilled to have so many new faces in this show!” said Adams.
“The Stranger” runs March 14, 15, 20, 21, and 22 at 7:30 p.m. and March 16 and 23 at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are $18 with general seating in the intimate 60-seat theatre. Tickets may be purchased at theblackboxtheatre.com or at the door. Phone 563-284-2350.
A portion of the 2025 season is supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.