As part of our LoveNUL Ambassador programme, we sent Kirstie Ash to the award-winning New Vic Theatre to review The Hound of the Baskervilles by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, adapted for the stage by Steven Canny and John Nicholson and directed by Joyce Branagh.
Bringing one of literature’s most famous mysteries to life in-the-round, this fast-paced adaptation promised intrigue, humour and inventive staging and Kirstie was there to soak it all in on behalf of LoveNUL.
Read on for Kirstie’s full review of this thrilling take on a Sherlock Holmes classic.
Wow! What can I say? A “Who dunnit?”, Mystery Play that is fast paced, has you laughing none stop and has amazing acting and characterisation with sound, lighting effects, quick costume changes in a Sherlock Holmes classic which is suitable for all ages!
The play takes you on a fast paced journey, where the characters figure out the mystery of the Hound of the Baskervilles, it takes you on a journey with the dynamic duo Sherlock and Dr Watson meeting different characters on the way.
With essences of the 70s and 80s TV shows the carry on movies and plays such as 39 Steps and The Play that goes wrong , even a Fawlty Towers vibe! It also has pantomime elements with songs such as Cha Cha slide and a character which is very much like a panto dame!
A genius part shows the characters on a train, lighting effects, sound and movement make it energetic with nods to the Polar Express and Thomas the Tank Engine keeping the comedy element!
Jerone Mash plays stage manager – Reid makes the scene changes theatrical, with amazing timing ! Jerone is quick on his feet and is spot on with timing to bring the back stage element into the production!
Alyce Liburd in the role of Dr Watson brings out the modern twist with phrases such as Slay and Totes! Which younger viewers can appreciate. It nice to see a female in the role of Watson, her comic timing is excellent and physical flexibility and movement adds to the character. Also having a cheeky side, such as expressions and modern words such as Totes! and Slay! that brings in more humour and makes it inclusive for a younger audience as much as an older audience.
Alex Phelps plays Sherlock Holmes other characters with a mix of accents, fast costume changes playing a variety of roles. All I can say is a pink dress, flamenco style and a pink fan! Fabulous characterisation and highlights various acting skills! Alex wins with the quick costume changes!
Tom Richardson plays Sir Henry Baskerville and other roles including an Aussie / Canadian character and a Devonshire farmer, accents galore! Tom works well alongside the other but is a comedy genius in his own right!
Shout out goes to the Creative Team and Production management, From lighting and sound to the physical comedy! It’s a must see play, which will have you belly laughing! The music, scenery, costumes bring the production together!
Chaotic, funny, and perfectly acted production!
I highly recommend you visit this production of The Hound of the Baskervilles, a laugh a minute with superb acting, effects, costumes and fast paced timing make it a must see!
The Hound of the Baskervilles is showing at the New Vic Theatre from Saturday 14th February to Saturday 14th March 2026. If Kirstie’s review has tempted you, don’t leave it to chance – secure your seat in the round and book your tickets now.
If you’d like to become a LoveNUL Ambassador and review shows at the New Vic Theatre, email hello@nulbid.co.uk and tell us a little about yourself.
