Reviewed by Jacqui Mulady
November 2012
Sherlock Holmes meets Charlie Chaplin all with a high degree of humour and wit. This play introduces Charlie Chaplin into the life of Sherlock Holmes and his ever suffering sidekicks Watson and Mycroft.
Being a staunch advocate of all things satirical, this play is more the genre of the recent Sherlock TV Series with Benedict Cumberbach and the Robert Downey Jnr movie versions rather than Basil Rathbone, with its satire and sarcasm.
Tony Busch as Sherlock was the perfect choice to play this role with his commanding presence and easy wit alongside his long suffering muse Watson, played by David Lockwood making the perfect foil.
David Rapkin as Mycroft Holmes also performed well as the political brother who is always there to offer his advice. Anthony Vawser as Malcolm March was extremely changeable as the role required. One minute he was an ordinary, everyday person you could pass in the street and not take any notice of, the next you were wondering where the orderlies and straight-jackets were.
Finally Karl McAlliser as young Charlie Chaplin was a stand-out. For someone so young, who never had the opportunity to see his character perform other than old grainy re-runs, he had the swagger and mannerisms down pat, including the renowned cane twirling.
The rest of the cast provided great support and the direction by Don Oakley really delved into the life and times faithfully. Mention must go to the incredible set and costuming which captured the era perfectly.
All in all, a great nights entertainment, which should not be missed.
