Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson travel to the moors of Devonshire for their latest case as Amelia Community Theatre presents “Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery.”
Playwright Ken Ludwig has adapted Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic 1902 novel, “The Hound of the Baskervilles” into a fast-paced comedic adventure with five actors portraying over 40 witty, imaginative characters. To capture the scope of the story and the setting, Ludwig uses farce to tell the tale of the cursed Baskerville family, where the male heirs are dying one by one, after being haunted by a vicious hound.
Holmes and Watson have been hired to investigate and protect the newest heir who has just arrived from Texas. Nothing seems elementary in this maze of red herrings, silly accents, and outrageous disguises as the actors make quick costume changes for each character, and the fleet-of-foot set change crews often become scenery themselves.
The cast includes Rob Davis, Bruce Gruber, Renee LaCroix, Sebastian Miller and Joseph Stearman.
The public is invited to a “Meet the Director” event at 1 p.m. on June 6 at the theatre for a behind-the-scenes discussion with show director Peggy Strickland and a sneak peek at the set. There is no charge to attend this informal event; refreshments will be served.
Show performances are at 7:30 p.m. on June 9-10, 15-17, 22-24 and at 2 p.m. on June 11 and 18 at 207 Cedar Street. Opening night guests will be treated to a pre-show pub party of fish and chips, with a tasting of Sherlock’s favorite wine for adult guests. The play is appropriate for all ages. Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students through college, available at www.AmeliaCommunityTheatre.org and by calling 904-261-6749. Box office hours are 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays and 90 minutes before curtain on show dates. Amelia Community Theatre is in its 42nd season of putting the community on stage.