Against the odds of Covid and epic recasting, the Original Theatre Company open with The Hound of the Baskervilles at the Theatre Royal Bath.
Photo © Pamela Raith
It is a bonkers affair that at times flies with nonsense and silliness then occasionally lapses into wandering unnecessary repeats and overworked jokes.
The premise is the original story by Conan Doyle and the design by David Woodhead ensures an atmospheric romp through the wilds of Dartmoor.
The set allows great versatility and in keeping with similar shows such as The 39 Steps, the cast of 3 multi-role with great skill and dexterity.
On this occasion, Niall Ransome played Holmes, Fred Gray Doctor Watson and Serena Manteghi was Sir Henry Baskerville amongst many others.
The titular Hound was very rarely considered or featured, which allowed it to be suitable for any age and there were also moments of good fun such as the train ride and the sinking mud on the moor.
The script often held up the pace and energy of the action as it demanded repetition of scenes or reminders to the audience.
These Brechtian ideas were overused which affected the plot and general dynamics of the action.
Many of the audience were clearly having a great evening and rightly so. The cast worked tirelessly to keep the show alive, and their skills are evident.
It lacks the quality of writing of similar formulaic productions, but it seems mountains were moved to keep the show on the road and for that the entire team should be celebrated.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Reviewer: Petra Schofield
The Hound of the Baskervilles is showing at the Theatre Royal in Bath until Saturday 29th January 2022.
