The Grand Theatre Blackpool – until 14 February 2026
Reviewed by Debra Skelton
5*****
The Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift theatre tour, directed by Guy Unsworth, brings the classic TV whodunnit to the stage by Nicholson Green Productions and Colin Ingram LTD with a blend of humour, suspense, and rural charm and is based on the original novel by Caroline Graham and the pilot episode of the TV series.
The plot follows DCI Tom Barnaby and DS Gavin Troy investigating the murder of the well- loved spinster and former teacher Emily Simpson who has been found dead in her cottage in the seemingly peaceful & picturesque village of Badger’s Drift; however, it comes to light that the village is actually full of secrets.
Her doctor initially dismisses it as a heart attack, but her friend Lucy Bellringer insists on foul play which prompts DCI Tom Barnaby and DS Gavin Troy to be called in to investigate where after the requirement of an autopsy, it is confirmed that Emily was poisoned with a mixture of red wine and hemlock.
As they dig deeper, the detectives encounter a cast of eccentric suspects, including the blackmailing birdwatcher Iris Rainbird and various villagers with hidden passions and dark and dangerous long-buried rivalries.
The murderer does strike again giving a rise to the body count leading to an “unforgettable reveal” that connects a cold case from the past to the current string of killings.
The show features a mix of comedy, innuendo, and moments of genuine terror and has been described as a “homicidal panto” or parody. It features a small cast playing multiple roles with quick, striking changes in tone from comedy to suspense. The production is noted for its clever use of, sometimes, exaggerated, and, at other times, subtly nuanced acting to create the classic, cosy Midsomer atmosphere.
The cast in this production can only be described as sensational starring Daniel Casey as Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby (the original Detective Sargeant Gavin Troy in the TV series), James Bradwell as Detective Sargeant Gavin Troy, Nathalie Barclay as Judy Lessiter / Katherine Lacey, Chandrika Chevli as Barbara Lessiter / Dr Bullard / Dickie Whiteley, John Dougall as Trevor Lessiter / Iris Rainbird / Henry Trace, Julie Legrand as Lucy Bellringer, Terry Bazely / Phillis Cadell, Rupert Sadler as Dennis Rainbird / Michael Lacey and the ensemble of Chris Agha and Rhian Crowley-McLean.
Special thanks also need to go to David Woodhead for the adaptable set design (includes a large circular “roundel” at the back used for flashbacks and dream sequences, while sets of picturesque houses slide on and off stage) and costume design, Matt Haskins for the lighting design (spooky at times) and Ella Wahlstrom for sound design (added to the tension).
The play is designed to be accessible to both fans of the long-running television series and newcomers, delivering a “cozy evening of butchery and bucolic charm”.