Agatha Christie’s "The Hollow" is not renowned for its originality or thought-provoking plot. In fact, the play set in 1951 England is truly no more than a classic case of whodunit. However, viewers can’t help but to be captivated by the murder mystery.

Director Christy Morris and her cast delivered a fine opening night performance, which allowed the audience to experience a wide range of emotions, at the Barnstable Comedy Club.

"The Hollow" explores the thin line between love and madness, questioning just how far obsession can take someone. A murder is further complicated not only by multiple love triangles, but by the dynamics of a clearly dysfunctional family.

During what is supposed to be a relaxing weekend get-together at 'The Hollow,' the home of Sir Henry Angkatell (Henry F. Morlock) and Lady Lucy Angkatell (Susan Cannavo), things progress from awkwardly tense to devastating.

Sir Angkatell’s cousin, Henrietta Angkatell (Debbie Barette), a sculptor, has been staying temporarily at 'The Hollow.' Henrietta and her hosts are joined by Midge Harvey (Dawnmarie Stearn Sherlock-King), the youthful “only half Angkatell,” Edward Angkatell (Kevin Kenneally), cousin and current owner of the family estate and Dr. John (Paul Beatty) and Gerda (Theresa D. Cedrone) Cristow, the outsiders.

Although the play does seem to drag on a bit, Cannavo, who often had the audience laughing out loud, shined with her portrayal of the absent-minded Lucy.

But the real showstopper is Cedrone, who captures the essence of a woman pushed to madness. Her portrayal of Gerda, who is at first-glance subservient and meek, develops into one of the production’s most intense characters. Cedrone makes the audience to feel her pain.

Although "The Hollow" starts out slow, the surprise ending is awesome. Theatre novices will enjoy the simple plot and visuals, while veteran theatre-goers will appreciate the revival of a classic Agatha Christie production.

An audience member emphasized that “a chance to see an Agatha Christie play is not to be missed.” 

The production also features performances by Desmond Keogh as Gudgeon, Dan Powers as Inspector Colquhoun, Chris Graham as Detective Sergeant Penny and Elizabeth Smith as Doris.

The Barnstable Comedy Club’s 8 p.m. performance of "The Hollow" continues on Jan. 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29. It will also be shown at 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 16, 23 and 30. Tickets are $16 and $14 for students and seniors. Call the Box Office at 508-362-6333 for tickets and information.