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Black Coffee by Agatha Christie

Black Coffee Auditions - Spring 2026

🟢 Open

Show Details

Black Coffee

By: Agatha Christie

Director: Charles Marriott

Performance Dates: Apr 12 - Apr 18, 2026

Thriller Drama

Accomplished physicist Sir Claud Amory has constructed a workable formula for one of the most deadly weapons known to man: the atom bomb. After the formula is mysteriously stolen and Sir Claud is callously murdered, Hercule Poirot arrives to solve the mystery with the help of Captain Hastings and Inspector Japp. A superbly crafted whodunit with endless red herrings, subplots of infamous spies and an astonishingly prophetic storyline about weapons created through “bombarding the atom”, Black Coffee is one of Christie’s most gripping country house murder mysteries

Available Roles (13)
Lead Roles (3)

Major characters with substantial stage time and character development

Lucia Amory
Lead Role Female Age: 20-30

Character Description:

Richard’s half-Italian wife, a beautiful, enigmatic young woman with a mysterious past. Lucia is emotionally volatile, torn between loyalty and secrets, making her a suspect in the murder. Her allure and inner turmoil drive much of the drama. Physically, she’s striking, with an elegant, slightly exotic appearance (e.g., sophisticated 1930s gowns).

Audition Notes:

A demanding role requiring charisma, vulnerability, and intensity. Actors must master subtle shifts between charm and distress, with a hint of an Italian accent. Ideal for performers who can captivate as a complex, glamorous figure.

Richard Amory
Lead Role Male Age: 30-40

Character Description:

Sir Claud’s son and Lucia’s husband, a serious, somewhat reserved man caught between family pressures and his troubled marriage. He’s loyal but conflicted, with suspicions about his wife’s past. His role involves emotional intensity and pivotal plot interactions. Physically, he’s handsome, likely in smart attire reflecting his status.

Audition Notes:

Requires emotional depth to portray a man torn by love and doubt. Actors should convey restrained intensity and chemistry with Lucia. Suitable for those adept at complex, layered performances.

Hercule Poirot
Lead Role Male Age: 50-60

Character Description:

A brilliant Belgian detective with a sharp intellect and theatrical flair, Poirot is the heart of the mystery, unraveling the murder and theft of a scientific formula at the Amory estate. He’s meticulous, charming, and exudes quiet confidence, with a penchant for order and a distinctive accent. His keen observation and psychological insight drive the investigation, requiring an actor who can command the stage with wit and gravitas. Physically, he’s of average build, often fastidious in appearance (think tailored suits and a signature mustache).

Audition Notes:

Must master a Belgian accent and convey intellectual authority with a touch of humor. Strong stage presence is essential, as Poirot dominates key scenes. Ideal for actors skilled in nuanced, cerebral performances.

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Supporting Roles (6)

Important characters that support the main storyline

Edward Raynor
Support Role Male Age: 20-30

Character Description:

Sir Claud’s secretary, a polite, efficient young man with a professional demeanor. He’s observant and discreet, but his proximity to the family’s secrets makes him a potential suspect. His role involves subtle tension and plot-critical moments. Physically, he’s neat, likely in formal attire (e.g., suits).

Audition Notes:

Requires understated intensity and the ability to hint at hidden depths. Actors should convey professionalism with a touch of ambiguity. Suitable for versatile performers comfortable in ensemble roles.

Barbara Amory
Support Role Female Age: 20-25

Character Description:

Sir Claud’s “hard-partying” niece, a lively, modern young woman who brings a carefree, flirtatious energy to the staid Amory household. Described as “very modern,” she’s witty and rebellious, contrasting with Caroline’s conservatism. Her role adds humor and intrigue. Physically, she’s stylish, likely in bold 1930s fashion.

Audition Notes:

Perfect for actors with vibrant, comedic energy and a knack for quick-witted dialogue. Must convey youthful defiance and charm. Strong ensemble presence is needed for family scenes.

Caroline Amory
Support Role Female Age: 50-60

Character Description:

Sir Claud’s spinster sister, a traditional, fussy woman who manages the household with a mix of warmth and nosiness. She’s conservative, slightly gossipy, and protective of family propriety, often clashing with younger, modern characters. Her role provides comedic and emotional texture to the family dynamic. Physically, she’s prim, likely in modest, period-appropriate dresses.

Audition Notes:

Ideal for actors who can blend humor with pathos, portraying a meddlesome yet sympathetic figure. Must convey a 1930s upper-class English sensibility. Strong ensemble work is key, as she interacts with multiple characters.

Sir Claud Amory
Support Role Male Age: 60-70

Character Description:

A distinguished physicist and patriarch of the Amory family, Sir Claud is a brilliant but stern figure whose work on a revolutionary formula sets the plot in motion. He’s authoritative, secretive, and distrustful, with a commanding presence in his household. His limited stage time centers on establishing the stakes before the murder. Physically, he’s older, likely with a scholarly appearance (e.g., tweed suits, spectacles).

Audition Notes:

Requires gravitas and intensity to convey a man of intellect and control. Actors should focus on subtle arrogance and vulnerability. Limited stage time demands a memorable performance in key early scenes.

Inspector Japp
Support Role Male Age: 40-50

Character Description:

A Scotland Yard detective, professional but slightly overshadowed by Poirot’s brilliance. Japp is pragmatic, no-nonsense, and occasionally exasperated by Poirot’s theatrics, yet respects him. Described in the novelization as a “middle-aged man with a thick-set figure,” he’s a grounded, authoritative figure. His role involves procedural investigation, offering a contrast to Poirot’s flair.

Audition Notes:

Needs a commanding yet approachable presence, with a British accent and a knack for dry humor. Physicality should suggest solidity and experience. Suitable for actors who excel in authoritative roles with subtle comedic timing.

Captain Arthur Hastings
Support Role Male Age: 40-50

Character Description:

Poirot’s loyal companion, a retired military man with a straightforward, earnest demeanor. Hastings is less brilliant than Poirot but deeply dependable, often serving as the audience’s lens into the mystery. He’s warm, slightly bumbling, and quintessentially English, with a sense of honor and curiosity. Physically, he’s fit, with a military bearing, likely dressed in smart but unflashy attire.

Audition Notes:

Requires a natural, likable quality and chemistry with Poirot. Actors should lean into Hastings’ sincerity and occasional naivety without overplaying the “sidekick” stereotype. Must handle dialogue-heavy scenes with energy.

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Minor Roles (3)

Smaller parts that contribute to the production

Treadwell
Minor Role Male Age: 40-60

Character Description:

The Amory family butler, a traditional, dignified servant who maintains the household’s order. He’s observant but discreet, with a formal demeanor typical of 1930s butlers. Physically, he’s in a classic butler’s uniform, with a composed posture.

Audition Notes:

Ideal for actors who can embody stoic professionalism with subtle expressiveness. Limited lines require strong physical presence and ensemble work.

Dr. Kenneth Graham
Minor Role Male Age: 30-50

Character Description:

The Amory family doctor, a professional figure called to confirm the poisoning. He’s calm, competent, and straightforward, with limited but key involvement in the investigation. Physically, he’s likely in professional attire (e.g., a suit or doctor’s coat).

Audition Notes:

A smaller role suited for actors who can convey authority and reliability with minimal dialogue. Must fit seamlessly into the ensemble.

Dr. Carelli
Minor Role Male Age: 30-40

Character Description:

A mysterious Italian guest and friend of Lucia, Carelli is suave, charming, and potentially untrustworthy. His enigmatic presence adds intrigue, as his motives are unclear. Physically, he’s polished, likely in tailored European-style suits, with a charismatic air.

Audition Notes:

Needs a magnetic, slightly sinister quality with a convincing Italian accent. Actors should excel at playing ambiguity, balancing charm and menace. Ideal for those with strong stage presence in complex roles.

Cameo & Ensemble (1)

Brief appearances and ensemble roles

Constable Johnson
Cameo Role Male Age: 20-40

Character Description:

A local policeman assisting Inspector Japp, with minimal involvement in the investigation. He’s straightforward and deferential, a typical junior officer. Physically, he’s in a period-appropriate police uniform.

Audition Notes:

A brief role for actors who can portray authority with limited dialogue. Requires a convincing British accent and ensemble integration.

Interested in Auditioning?

We'd love to hear from you! Fill out our contact form to express your interest or if you have any questions.

Contact: artisticteam@theatre62.org.uk

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What to Expect at Theatre 62 Auditions

Our auditions are friendly and supportive. Whether you're an experienced performer or new to community theatre, you'll find a welcoming environment at Theatre 62.

  • All auditions are held at the Wickham Theatre Centre
  • No previous experience is required - we welcome all abilities
  • Rehearsals typically run for 6-8 weeks before opening night
  • Shows run Monday-Friday evenings and Saturday/Sunday matinees

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