The stage play, written by Ken Ludwig, adapts Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic Sherlock Holmes novel The Hound of the Baskervilles. The story sees Holmes trying to solve a seemingly supernatural curse affecting a rural family. The Stage 43 production, directed by Dale Kelly, will be a speedy and light-hearted take on the story which will introduce some new twists and tricks. The story’s 40 characters will be played by just five actors with an assortment of costumes, props, and accents employed. Promotional material emphasizes the mystery’s larger themes:
“Does a wild hellhound prowl the moors of Devonshire? Can our heroes discover the truth in time? Join the fun and see how far from elementary the truth can be.”
The show is performed using actors drawn from the local community as well as a crew of volunteers with a variety of theatrical experience. Companies like this often support local businesses for everything from brochure printing for programs to antique stores for set dressing. Baskerville will be the second of three shows in Stage 43’s 2024-25 season, and will be followed by the company’s presentation of Florian Zeller’s drama The Father in May.
The Stage 43 production of Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery will be staged across 8 nights between January 16 and 25, 2025, including one matinee performance.