Stage Review Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty
- debra Hall
- May 6
- 2 min read
Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty
Adapted and Directed by Nick Lane from the works of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
Writer Nick Lane has combined a good few of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's stories and arrived at one mystery of Sherlock and his arch-nemesis Professor Moriarty, for stage, Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty.
The opening reveals the property at Baker Street almost gutted by fire. Flashback scenes from thereon in feature the apartment and its famous resident in tact. A series of strange events and unfortunate crimes happen prior to the fire. A complex story unfolds with Dr Watson narrating on occasion to provide much needed explanation as to where things are going.
With some fast tweaking the impressive set is utilised to be: London's underground network of trains; the home of an aristocrat; a Gentleman's club and a creepy basement space in a theatre, to name a few. With the help of projection and light and sound effects the immovable elements work. However, opting for such a small cast, with its ensemble members playing multiple characters, the interweaving story is confusing enough and sometimes the character switches create further confusion.
This is not a parody. This is a drama that is rather still and relies on lengthy dialogue to keep one engaged and to fill the gaps. This is achieved for the best part, because all the complexity and the riddles is expected actually, because it is all part of the deal when it comes to relishing tales involving these old storybook characters: Holmes, Watson and all the Ms too: Mycroft, Moriarty and Mrs Hudson.
The essence and nature of this classic work of fiction has obviously been in the safe hands of this touring production, some good work and nice touches - if you are a fan of the franchise that is Sherlock Holmes the show is at Derby Theatre until Saturday 09 May 2026.
Cast: Ben Owora (Dr Watson) Mark Knightley (Sherlock Holmes)
Ensemble members: Pippa Caddick, Robbie Capaldi, Eliot Guiralarocca, Gavin Molloy
Stage Review Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty by Theatre Critic, Debra Hall who attended the matinee performance at Derby Theatre on 06 May, 2026 at 2.30pm
REFERENCES
Derby Theatre Sherlock Holmes - Press Night 05 May 2026
Derby Theatre Derby Theatre - new brochure and the season ahead 17 Dec 2025
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