Theatre Royal Windsor – until Saturday 8 April 2023
Reviewed by Carly Burlinge
5*****
The Valley of Fear tells the story of a coded message received by Sherlock Holmes (Luke Barton) and Dr John Watson (Joseph Derrington). The message reveals that a murder has taken place in an old manor house in the Pennsylvanian Vermissa Valley within a secret society. As they both begin to unravel the clues, it leads them down a path of danger, darkness and deceit. The production opens with a tense beginning of all characters repeating sentences over and over that danger is upon them and Sherlock’s begins with the words ‘Brutal the most Brutal crime I’ve ever seen’ this immediately drawing you straight in to an impressive production.
Holmes plays his character on point going into great detail, he is chaotic at times and explores all aspects of the crime before our eyes with great expression, description and accurate speech. I think he plays a spectacular Holmes, keeping the audience gripped throughout. His partner, Doctor Watson also has much to offer he plays a patient character that’s observant as well as intelligent and together they make a great duo. His character comes across bold as he also narrates, walking us through the story, keeping us up to date with what’s happening as there is a lot going on. He does it fantastically well and is a joy to watch. I also loved how lighting was used during narrating. When interrogation arose, there was music in the background intensifying the moment, cleverly done and intriguing to watch. As the two work their way through crime it’s very apparent that there is emotion between the pair as the words are spoken ‘without Sherlock there is no game but without Sherlock there is no Watson’. This showing the steady friendship whilst fighting and uncovering crime.
With an interlocking story apparent the cast double up in roles and do this exceptionally well.
Although this production is quite intense it does offer the right amount of drama alongside some light comedy giving the show a great balance for viewing.
I really enjoyed watching this performance that offered a great story line with unexpected twists and plots.
I would definitely, recommend this show and if you’re a Sherlock fan you’ll enjoy it just that little bit more.