Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty, Blackeyed Theatre Review
Written by Stacy for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
This week at Northern Stage, Blackeyed Theatre’s Sherlock Holmes: The Hunt for Moriarty steps into the spotlight. Adapted by Nick Lane, from the world of Arthur Conan Doyle, we experience the mystery through the eyes of Dr. Watson, played with real warmth by Joseph Derrington. His narration guided us through the many plot twists and turns, though at times I felt the balance leaned a little too heavily towards words rather than action.
Mark Knightley’s take on Sherlock Holmes was an interesting one. Personally, I prefer a Holmes who’s a bit frayed at the edges, manic, restless, and almost chaotic in his brilliance. Knightley chose a more measured, composed detective. There were moments of hysteria that hinted at something bubbling underneath, but overall the choice didn’t quite spark against Derrington’s Watson. Their chemistry felt a little too tidy and I missed that crazed push and pull that usually makes their dynamic so compelling.
That being said, the cast as a whole deserve huge credit. Everyone gave themselves fully to the performance and the way they switched between multiple roles was so clear and seamless that the story never became confusing. Those quick, precise transitions also kept the piece moving, even when the pacing dipped elsewhere.
Visually, the set was a real highlight. Victoria Spearing created a practical and atmospheric world that transformed into different locations with ease. But the longer scene changes, athough carefully choreographed, did slow things down, and with a play that already ran on the longer side, that start-stop rhythm tested the audience’s patience at times.
I did enjoy the evening. The production was detailed, clearly well thought out and carried by performers who threw themselves fully into it. For me, a sharper sense of pace and a few more moments of raw, physical energy would have lifted it even further. Still, Blackeyed Theatre delivered a stylish and solid Sherlock Holmes, crafted with real care.
Playing at Northern Stage until 24th September before moving on to Billingham Forum for the next leg of the tour.
★★★
