Holmes The Victorian Detective

Congratulations to The Longton Players for their excellent production of “Holmes The Victorian Detective” written by Dean Wallace, one of their members.

It was a huge undertaking, initially by Dean to write this piece and by John Ellis for taking on the mammoth task of Director.

The journey began when Dean asked John to read the script and give his opinion. This progressed to Dean asking John to direct it and went on to finally come to fruition on stage. Dean had based his script on the stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and as the play progressed we were encouraged to identify those particular plots.

The curtain opened to reveal a well designed and constructed set by John Tipping, depicting the great detective’s residence in Baker Street. Subsequently the set was adapted, as the play progressed, to show us other locations. This was accomplished by slick changes, which ensured the correct pace of the Production. The Victorian period was created by excellent period costumes and set dressing.  We were immediately drawn into the plot from the outset as Holmes and Watson investigated the disappearance of a potentially explosive document, which could have far reaching, disastrous effects, on the relationship between Great Britain and Europe.

This excellent script deserves to be heard by a much wider audience and I certainly hope this will happen.

Tonight the entire cast did justice to it, with no weak links.

Dean Wallace was very convincing as Holmes, bringing his own innovative interpretation to this iconic role, whilst James Miley as Dr. Watson was completely immersed in his character. His was a very powerful performance with very good comic timing, when required. Josephine Turner again showed her versatility in a delightful performance as Lady Hilda Trelawney, looking resplendent in a beautiful red gown.

The Right Honourable, Mr. Trelawney Hope, Daniel Haresnape, showed just the correct amount of angst in his portrayal of the lady’s husband.   I really enjoyed the lovely cameo role of Mrs. Hudson, played by Joan Miller. She certainly made the most of her every entrance and the audience enjoyed her every appearance as she attended to the needs of Holmes and Watson.

I have seen many productions by this company and they continue to improve. The very experienced John Ellis has excelled in directing this very entertaining play, showing some delightful touches through the course of the evening.

Well done, to all concerned, on a special night of Theatre.

Thank you, once again, for your warm welcome to my wife and myself

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