The Secret of Sherlock Holmes - review

Holmes is a wonderfully complex character and arguably the greatest of all super sleuths.

Jeremy Paul’s play cleverly explores the very essence of the man and his darker side. His genius for acute observation and a powerful logic are precariously balanced by a crippling drug habit and a great need for the steady support of Dr Watson.

The play keeps faith with Conan Doyle’s original dialogue and has some very funny moments. Watson amusingly begins to list Holmes’s shortcomings with great hilarity.

“Philosphy, nil. Astronomy, nil. Politics, feeble. Botany, variable: well up on belladonna, opium and poisons generally.”

The first act devotes itself to the dynamics of their great friendship and how they came to be housemates, whilst in act two Holmes’s arch enemy Moriarty looms large.

Peter Egan of “Ever Decreasing Circles” fame is masterful as the eponymous hero bringing humour, subtlety and great comic timing to the role. He is ably supported by Philip Franks. Having once charmed the nation playing Charley in the “Darling Buds of May” he has successfully prized himself away from Ma Larkin’s ample bosom to put in a cracking performance here. Watson can sometimes be a rather bland foil to the vibrant Holmes but Franks breathes heart and soul into his part with great aplomb. Both actors are reprising their roles having starred in a production of “The Hound of the Baskervilles” and really bring depth and great wit to this fascinating production.

A quieter but no less bright star is the glorious set designed by Simon Higlett. 221b Baker Street oozes velvety, smoky comfort while dark, brooding Victorian London lurks outside ready to hatch more evil anti-heroes on the unsuspecting duo.

This truly is a must see for all crime-busters and lovers of literary whodunnits. After all, it’s elementary, my dear Watson.

Liz Colbert