Review: SHERLOCK HOLMES - THE VALLEY OF FEAR, Southwark Playhouse (Borough)
Alex Harvey-Brown
Blackeyed Theatre’s Sherlock Holmes: The Valley of Fear plunges audiences into a whirlwind of mystery, intrigue, and sharp deductions. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic tale receives a fresh and gripping stage adaptation, transporting viewers from 221B Baker Street to the dark recesses of the Pennsylvanian Vermissa Valley.
With two parallel narratives weaving together in typical Conan Doyle fashion, the production demands razor-sharp attention from its audience. Minimal yet effective set designed by Victoria Spearing sets the stage for a thrilling journey, with nods to iconic elements like intricate wallpaper and Dr. Watson's trusty typewriter making it feel like 221B Baker Street. The music composed by Tristan Parkes fits seamlessly into the story and assists during the set changes to keep the audience in the story. Nick Lane directs the piece, and it is not his first time entering the world of Holmes and Watson which is evident in the way the play is designed to guide the audience without giving away the twists to early.
The cast's versatility shines as they seamlessly inhabit multiple roles, with Joseph Derrington's immediate transformation with the removal of his glasses, from a southern bookkeeper into the well-known narrator Dr. Watson being a notable highlight. Bobby Bradley embodies the iconic Sherlock Holmes with precision, capturing the character's quirks and intellect effortlessly. Even the slight smirk as he solves parts of the case or the look of superiority when no one else has pieced it all together, perfectly encapsulates the character.
Alice Osmanski adds levity as Mrs Hudson with her light-hearted quips before changing into the stern, cold Ivy Douglas and then into the hilarious hard-of- hearing housekeeper Mrs Allen amongst others. Gavin Molloy plays the most variety with 6 characters including the sinister Moriarty, the calm inspector and the ruthless, violent blackjack. His stellar acting leaves you in no doubt of who is on the stage at each moment with subtle outfit changes to assist.
Blake Kubena is the final member of the cast switching between gun-toting Jack McMurdo and the loveable fan of Sherlock as the small-town detective. So expertly portrayed that it required checking the program to confirm they were played by the same actor. Some expertly crafted fight sequenced choreographed by action designer Robert Myles helped to bring to the life the danger of the story.
Despite occasional stumbling over lengthy monologues and minor unusual technical decisions, the production remains engaging and immersive throughout. Viewers are kept on the edge of their seats, eagerly attempting to unravel the mysteries alongside the legendary detective. Possibly a little too long especially in the first half where much set-up takes place to allow the action of the second half to occur.
Overall, a well-rounded show which created a cryptic, interesting night out for anyone who loves a murder mystery and a puzzle to solve. Knowing the story before seeing the show would be beneficial but going in without any knowledge did not hinder the performance or the enjoyment. A good night out full of mystery, scheming and clues with some laughter thrown in and a few additional moments for those who are fans of Sherlock Holmes.
**** Four Stars
Reviewed by Frances Tate
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