Sherlock Holmes – The last Act

Sherlock Holmes – The Last Act

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Sherlock Holmes is so much a part of our culture that it is difficult to remember that he is not a real person, but a character created by Conan Doyle. Watching Nigel Miles-Thomas take on the role of Sherlock Holmes it is even more difficult to accept.

With a simple set, a minimal change of costume and his favourite chair, subtle lighting and music, Nigel Miles-Thomas is totally believable as Sherlock Holmes. We meet him on the day of Dr Watson’s funeral. This event leads Sherlock to reminisce about their friendship, and the cases they solved.  He tells his old friend and partner of thirty five years some things he should have said to him while he was alive.But make no mistake – Holmes makes clear the he was the senior partner. Even so this is a diminished Sherlock The thrill and challenge of the chase is no longer there. His arch-enemy Moriarty, has been vanquished. The drugs have taken their toll.

A solo show challenges any performer even with the excellent script, by David Stuart Davies. The actor has only himself to rely upon and to hold the audience. Nigel-Miles-Thomas meets the challenges in spades, using his voice, subtle body language, and sheer presence to hold the audience until the end. He effortlessly takes on fourteen characters –  among them the earnest but ineffective police inspectors, the people whose cases he solved, his landlady and Moriarty.  

Certainly a must for Sherlock Holmes fans but also something to whet the appetite of those who have not yet had the pleasure of his acquaintance.

Goodwood Theatre and Studios – Studio 166

Until 17 March but check times and days in the Fringe program.