Agatha Christie’s courtroom drama comes to the big stage in “Witness for the Prosecution,” by the Ventura College Theatre Department.

A theme that hasn’t been chosen for a long time, a drama like “Witness for the Prosecution” had many challenging roles for the actors, said Dr. Judy Garey, department chair of the Theatre Arts Department.

“We try to vary the types of shows we present in the theatre department, and a courtroom drama is a type we haven’t done in a long time,” said Garey.

“Witness for the Prosecution” follows the story of a young man accused of an elderly woman’s death. His only alibi is his wife and no one knows if she is telling the truth. According to the press release, the play has “multiple twists and turns right up to the end.”

Garey only hopes that the audience enjoys the performance.

“I hope the audience will be drawn in and intrigued by the story as well as challenged by the outcome.”

The performance will be performed in two theaters, the first act on the main stage and the second in the circus theater.

“This should make for an interesting theatre experience for the audience members,” said Garey.

“Witness for the Prosecution” will preview, free to the public, on Feb. 19 at 8 p.m. Performances will continue through Feb. 20-21 and 26-28 at 8 p.m. The last performance will be held on Sunday, March 1 at 3 p.m. Tickets will be sold at the door; $9 for general and $7 for students, staff and seniors. For more information please contact Dr. Judy Garey at (805) 654-6400 or by email [email protected].