★★★★★
“ A sometimes funny, sometimes tragic, always exciting and incredibly entertaining piece of theatre – a thrilling insight into the mind of the detective genius that is Sherlock Holmes ”
★★★★★
“ Superbly adapted for the live stage by Nick Lane for this outstanding production by Blackeyed Theatre ”
★★★★★
“ A masterclass in all things theatrical ”
★★★★
“ A most original take on a work that presents its problems with regard to staging, this is a very entertaining production; thoroughly enhanced by the music of Tristan Parkes. By going back to the spirit of Conan Doyle’s novel and avoiding the more clichéd representations of Holmes and Watson this should appeal to fans and non-fans alike ”
★★★★
“ A dark, gripping stage presentation of one of Holmes’ most complex cases ”
★★★★
“ A well-adapted and cleverly staged Sherlock Holmes adaptation, The Sign of Four is an entertaining and engaging production ”
“ A glorious triumph all round. The magic of a superbly crafted, well paced, flowing script is magnificently enhanced by beautiful set, lighting and costume, a multi-talented cast of six and an underscore of vibrant, live incidental music ”
“ buzzes with energy, wit and mystery… a treat for Holmes fans and those who just like a good crime yarn ”
“ a fine cast led by Luke Barton as the brilliant, charismatic but infuriating Holmes and Joseph Derrington as his long-suffering sidekick Doctor Watson, a wonderfully evocative set and superb costumes, sound and lighting ”
“ Slick, stylish and seamless ”
“ What makes this production so refreshing is that the two are delivered by such obviously young men – and it works exceedingly well as they plunge into the murkiest of tales, one rooted in stolen treasure, Indian uprising, convicts, betrayal and murder. Put it all together and it is more than enough to spark Holmes into action ”
“ Stephanie Rutherford is refined and respectable as Mary, but expertly switches demeanour and voice to suit as the two working class women. Christopher Glover is bombastically funny as policeman Athelney-Jones, so sure he has solved the murder mystery, and a complete contrast as Indian Khan. Ru Hamilton has fun with hypochondriac Thaddeus Sholto but with a completely different attitude as Major Sholto, his twin, while Zach Lee comes into his own towards the end with a long, involved speech which he delivers with panache. Barton and Derrington as Holmes and Watson have the luxury of a single role each, which they both have nailed perfectly ”
“ an incredible portrayal of belief, one that strikes at the memory of past productions, and gently, and with humility, sets itself apart from the rest. A play that is clued up on how to keep an audience on its toes – 9/10 ”
“ a real treat that’ll have you thrilled from beginning to end – 9/10 ”
“ cohesive, well constructed and amazingly performed ”
“ A classic story uniquely brought to life… a must see ”
