The revival of one of Sherlock Holmes’ most famous cases The Hound of the Baskervilles was brought into a hilariously new light by the Original Theatre Company, and Octagon Theatre Bolton at The Richmond Theatre. Teetering on the edge of hysteria the retelling of the famous story was bright and easy (juxtaposed to the connotations of a ‘murder mystery’)  and remained faithful to the original story. 

 

Performed in an entirely alternate manner to that of the original through the use of just three actors: Niall Ransome, Jake Feretti and Serena Mantegna, I was left feeling enlightened by the spirited portrayal of a once simplistic story. The Hound of the Baskervilles is a story about Dr Watson and Sherlock Holmes investigating the murderous hound that preys on generations of the wealthy well-to-do Baskerville family. When the hound strikes on another Baskerville causing his death on the desolate moors of Devonshire the two detectives have no choice but to protect Sir Henry Baskerville (next in line to the jaws of the hound) and uncover the mysterious beast.

 

Upon arrival, you’re greeted by a stage enveloped in smoke, creating a fantastical and ethereal atmosphere. Situated between rolling hills and naked trees was a gothic mansion. Depicting Baskerville Hall. Baskerville Hall was of disproportionate measure in comparison to the accentuated surrounding scales of the scenery. The stage was orchestrated by David Woodhead along with the frivolous costumes. His set was largely enhanced by Derek Anderson’s spooky lighting.  

 

An entire show with only three actors you ask? Well, with sustained stamina, excellent execution and tricky timings the actors managed to convey a dozen characters throughout the duration of the play.

 

 Serena Mantegna was endlessly emphatic and silver tongued. With consistent use of striking articulation and colourful humour, she executed  the roles of both Sir Henry and the London cabbie along with a variety of Dartmoor locals ‘Yokles’ with brilliance. Mantegna brought the stage to light with her graphic facial expressions and striking disposition. 

 

Complimentary to Sir Henry’s extrovert personality was Niall Ransome. A bumbling and amiable character who shadowed Sherlock eagerly. Positioned on the back of his heels, impatiently following the Great Holmes like a bad smell. Playing Dr. Watson, Ransome portrayed  the ‘side’ character yet remaining integral to the calamity of the play.

 

 Jake Feretti the jovial Sherlock Holmes (who also played Mr Stapleton and his supposed Costa Rican sister Celeste) paraded the stage like a pompous peacock, matching the exaggerated theme of the play. Celeste Stapleton- one of Feretti’s many roles wore a crimsons red flamenco dress  and was the apple of Sir Henry’s eye. Sharing a calamitous love between the two unsuspecting characters. 

 

In unison with the original direction from Lottie Wakeham, Tim Jackson breaks the fourth wall. Continuing to involve the audience in the slapstick influences and endless costume changes. In the second half the pace is elevated (further than before). The recap of the first half was exceptionally well executed and very funny. 

 

There was not a moment of silence in the theatre as the walls bounced with merry laughter. This is an entertaining, daft and ingenious production and a wonderful way to spend an evening.