Unlike most of the other old West End theatres, the St Martin's doesn't have any of the gilt and elaborate plaster mouldings we have come to expect in such places. It has a rather simple and refined decor of polished wood and a cosy atmosphere.

The theatre also has an outstanding classical facade that makes it quite a bit more interesting and noticeable than its nearby neighbour, as well.

The St Martin's has had its share of famed British actors and actresses performing on its stage over the years, but there is one play in particular that has special meaning to the theatre.

A large chunk of the theatre's history has been tied to Agatha Christie's award-winning play “The Mousetrap”. This play was first shown in London at the New Ambassador Theatre in 1952 and had quite a long run there.

The play was transferred to the St Martin's in 1974, and has been playing there ever since. Indeed “The Mousetrap” is the longest running play in West End theatre history, and has spawned quite a few world's records in the process.

Almost 300 actors have taken their turns performing in this play. David Raven holds the “Most Durable Actor” title with 4,575 performances as Major Metcalf under his belt, and the late Nancy Seabrooke made the record books for spending 15 years as an understudy in this play.

More than 23,000 performances of “The Mousetrap” have taken place in London, with no end in sight. People flock to this theatre from all over the world to see this remarkable play.

The set was replaced for the first time in 2000 and quite amazingly was completed so quickly not even one performance was missed.

The St Martin's is a great place to find out whodunnit!

St Martin's Theatre

Address: West Street, Covent Garden, WC2H 0DP

Telephone: 020 7836 1443

Photo courtesy: Hugo Cadavez

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