Following the huge success of previous productions such as The Hollow, Spider’s Web and most recently Witness for the Prosecution, The Agatha Christie Theatre Company is back with yet another gripping murder mystery from the woman who knew the genre best.

Richmond Theatre welcomes Agatha Christie’s Verdict to its stage between April 25 and 30.

Starring Ali Bastian, ex-Hollyoaks and Strictly Come Dancing favourite, the play is anything but a typical Agatha Christie whodunit.

“It is more of an examination on human relationships. It involves a love triangle and plenty of unrequited love,” explains Bastian.

“It’s more of a why than a whodunit. Without giving too much away the murder is seen on stage in front of the audience."

Bastian’s character, Helen Rollander, is described by the actor as being “a little minx”. She has her sights set on her tutor, Karl Hendryk, and is intent on stealing him away from his invalid wife, Anya, and won’t let anything stand in her way.

“She is a very resourceful and conniving young woman," she adds.

"She is a very different character to any other I have played in the past. It is a very challenging role.” Bastian said it was a delight to be asked to play the part.

“I was approached for the role and agreed to take it on without a second thought. I met Joe Harmston, the director, and we really got on. It was an honour to join the Agatha Christie Theatre Company. Working alongside Dawn Steele was fantastic. She is an amazing leading lady."

As ex-Hollyoaks cast member, playing Becca Dean for six years, Bastian is known more for her television career than one on stage.

However, she recently starred in the West End dance show Burn the Floor.

She says: “It has been fantastic to go back to theatre. Although I’ve spent my acting career working in television, performing on stage is where my training lies. Nothing beats performing live in front of great audiences."

Verdict, Richmond Theatre, April 25 and 30. Tickets are available from abassadortickets.co.uk.