Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes has taken on many forms since he debuted in 1887. 70 actors have portrayed him in movies, Benedict Cumberbatch has built part of his career playing the detective. TV’s Elementary put a modern-day spin on the character. Holmes and his friend John Watson remain one of fictions most beloved and well-known characters.

One of Holmes’ most famous adventures is The Hound of the Baskervilles. The third story, written in 1901, is rated the best Sherlock Holmes novel. It tells the story of an attempted murder inspired by the legend of a fearsome, diabolical hound of supernatural origin. Acclaimed British playwright Ken Ludwig has taken the story, added a comedic element, and created a different twist on the classic story, which plays at Stage West until April 15^th.

Former Vertigo theatre artistic director Mark Bellamy is the obvious choice to direct the show, his experience in the genre results in a tightly put together, well crafted production. JP Thibodeau’s set design is versatile and sets a spooky tone right from the beginning. Put together with Michael Gesy’s sound design and all of the pieces are in place to recreate a Sherlock Holmes. With the staging set, its up to the actors to bring the story to life.

David Leyshon (Sherlock) and Patrick Brown (Watson) do a stellar job as the main characters. They capture the spirit and dry wit of the legendary pair, with excellent chemistry between the two. They play the straight men in the whirlwind around them as the other three actors - Braden Griffiths, Andrew Macdonald-Smith and Esther Purves-Smith – create dozens of other characters. From the Texas drawling Baskerville heir to the nature obsessed neighbor, the trio constantly changes characters in the blink of an eye. It’s an extremely talented cast that delivers their performances with gusto.

Your enjoyment of the show may vary. It’s slapstick style may not appeal to purists of Holmes work, but it also puts a fresh spin on a 115-year-old story that may expose people to Doyle’s work in a new light. There are some clever sight gags and lines and the heart of the original story still remains. Baskerville is another fun evening of theatre from Stage West.

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Contributor Jason Clevett |

Locale Calgary |

Topic Stagewest | Theatre |