The Glasgow Poisoner ★★★★

The Glasgow Poisoner is a retelling of a famous (or infamous) 19th-century Glaswegian case centred around a woman named Madeleine Smith who was on trial for possibly killing her love interest, Pierre Emile L’Engelier. With the trial ending in a not-proven verdict, this hour showcases possibly what transpired – leaving the audience in the end to ponder their own verdict.

With its fascinating true crime at its core, writers and directors, Tom Cooper and Jen McGregor have elevated their story further with an unlikely but joyous musical element. Featuring ten original songs, there are few standout numbers, with the arsenic song being the main crowd pleaser. If there’s a small criticism, it would be that some songs sound somewhat similar, especially at the start, and although wonderfully performed by Samuel Macdonald and composed, greater variety wouldn’t go amiss. When looking at the script, it is perfectly paced as we swiftly move on to other possible outcomes, and although it’s a dark story, the biggest highlight is the humour threaded throughout.

The stage design features a prominent piano, with an overflow of objects atop, instruments arranged in the background, a single lamppost, and pamphlets lining the walls. While this seems like a lot of effort production-wise, it’s the cast members who are central in conveying the essence of the piece, with few props actually used, the rest remaining as dressing. With the well-written script and tight stage direction, the cast are still the biggest draw.

The show features a small cast that are incredibly talented, showing impressive vocal range, musical skills and noteworthy acting. Morgan E. Ross plays Plume, a writer of pamphlets (essentially a tabloid reporter of his day) trying to uncover the story and get his sensational headline. It’s a charming, engaging performance that, from the first musical number, the audience will adore. David Healy as Emile finds the balance of a commanding but also comedic role, while Chiara Sparkes as Madeleine Smith shines in her comedy and emotive acting but is the scene stealer with her singing prowess. Together they are a talented trio who work effortlessly together to create something greater than the sum of their parts.

The result is that The Glasgow Poisoner is a thrilling, true-crime mystery told through an impressive trio, with smart stage direction and fun musical elements. It’s a show that will certainly make you want to discover more about this tale after watching it, offering an intriguing glimpse of this Victorian scandal. For those who love true crime and ones that adore musicals, this unlikely combination works shockingly well.