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'....and a partridge in a pear tree!'
The 12 Days of Christmas just got a seriously sleuthy upgrade.
This 21st-century reimagining of the Victorian classic Sherlock Holmes delivers a riotous festive whodunnit packed with farcical comedy, razor-sharp wit, and enough theatrical sparkle to light up Baker Street.
Humphrey Ker and David Reed's portrayal of the legendary duo is a delight: warm-hearted, wonderfully silly, and irresistibly charming. Their chemistry crackles from the moment they step on stage, balancing affectionate parody with genuine camaraderie.
The supporting cast – a seasoned crew of theatre and television favourites – each carve out their own tiny kingdom of comedy. Whether through a perfectly timed line, a knowing glance, or a moment of pure absurdity, they enrich the storyline and elevate the chaos to glorious heights.
Photo Pete Le May
And then there are the songs.
Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical contributions are nothing short of exceptional, sprinkled with delicious Broadway-esque Easter eggs. Keen-eared audience members will catch nods to The Phantom of the Opera and Variation 23, all wrapped in festive flair and Holmesian humour.
What made the performance even more infectious was the cast’s sheer enjoyment. You could see it—you could feel it. Their energy bounced around the theatre, pulling the audience into the mystery with every clue, red herring, and dramatic gasp.
The plot kept us guessing right to the end. Suspicions twisted and turned, pointing fingers at various characters before the final reveal landed with satisfying theatrical flourish.
One thing’s certain: this was definitely not “elementary, my dear Watson!'
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Written by Lisa and Gareth Tanner on behalf of The Theatre Flyer
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