Between the snarky Conan Doyle novels, the cheeky Downey Jr film, or the dark BBC series, it's not a far cry to say that folks don't typically associate the beloved 221 Baker St detective with the most wonderful time of the year. However, an adaptation by Michael Menendian and John Weagly gives the crime investigators a cozy place in holiday repertoire.
Milwaukee Entertainment Group's production of Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Goose runs, with its' intermission, around an hour and a half long - a perfect choice for the busy folks who still want to embrace the spirit of the season.
The company of Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Goose.
A man is mugged. Both he and his assailants escape the scene, but left behind is an old hat and a Christmas goose. Nestled inside the goose is a priceless stolen jewel. With no more than these clues, Sherlock Holmes and his John Watson are on the case.
Chris Goode brings an expert balance of intellect and levity to the title role. He delivers his observations at a breakneck pace, pausing just frequently enough for Watson (and the audience) to catch up. Josh Sheibe's Watson has an 'everyman' quality, serving as a reflection of the audience's standing along the way.
Amanda J Hull's direction is active and fluid. In the intimate space of the Brumder Mansion, the demands of an investigation are many - the story moves rapidly from location to location, character to character. Hull handles the flow of movement such so that the space is constantly made new and rediscovered throughout the story.
(Top to bottom) Jake Konrath, Jonathon Gideon, Dana Deone Strothenke, and Leslie Fitzwater.
With so many characters, the show would not be made possible without the efforts of the small but mighty ensemble. Upon entering the bed and breakfast, patrons are given a small concert of holiday carols featuring Leslie Fitzwater, Jonathon Gideon, Dana Leone Strothenke, and Jake Konrath. The quartet continues to string pep and cheer throughout the story, but in the meanwhile, they each don character... after character... after character, some without a moment between. The feat is ambitious, but the result is well worth it - the show is exciting and alive all the way through.
Patrons can go anywhere to catch a Christmas standard this season. Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Goose changes the standard. Keep the fun of Christmas while stimulating your brain with something clever and new this holiday through December 21st.