Theatre Review Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson Apt 2B
By Guy deBoer

(Front): Morgan Fraga Pierson, Mariah Woessner, Susannah Wells, Arthur Crocker. (Back): Mimi McDonald — Director

The Red Barn Theatre in Key West continues its tradition of delivering outstanding, intimate performances with its latest production, “Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson.” This witty, gender-flipped reimagining of the Sherlock Holmes stories breathes fresh life into the beloved detective genre, blending humor, intrigue, and clever storytelling. Running through February, this production is a must-see for both die-hard Sherlock fans and those simply looking for an evening of top-tier entertainment.

Stellar Performances by a Talented Cast

At the heart of this delightful production are the dynamic performances by a skilled cast. Leading the way is Susannah Wells as the brilliant yet eccentric detective, Ms. Holmes. Wells, no stranger to the Key West theater scene, brings a sharp wit and palpable energy to the role. Her portrayal is filled with quirky intelligence and just the right amount of aloofness, capturing Holmes’ genius while infusing the character with her own unique charm. Wells has previously appeared in productions such as “The Importance of Being Earnest” and “Twelfth Night” and has garnered a reputation for her versatility and strong stage presence.

Mariah Woessner takes on the role of Ms. Watson, Holmes’ ever-loyal sidekick. Woessner delivers a grounded and heartfelt performance, providing the perfect foil to Wells’ larger-than-life detective. Her Watson is both practical and relatable, with a sharp comedic sense. Woessner has performed in various regional theaters and is particularly known for her role in “The Glass Menagerie,” where she demonstrated her ability to bring emotional depth to her characters.

Morgan Frago Pierson dazzles in multiple roles, including Irene Adler and Ms. Hudson. Pierson seamlessly transitions between characters, showcasing her versatility and adeptness at bringing multiple personalities to life on stage. Her portrayal of Irene Adler is especially captivating, embodying the sophistication and mystery that makes Adler such a fascinating figure in the Holmes universe. Pierson has appeared in several productions at the Red Barn Theatre, including “Doubt” and “A Streetcar Named Desire,” consistently demonstrating her range and skill.

Arthur Crocker shines as Inspector Lestrade and Elliot Monk (among other roles), adding a touch of comic relief while embodying the bumbling, well-meaning inspector with charm. Crocker is a veteran actor with numerous credits across theaters in the Southeast, known for his work in productions like “The 39 Steps” and “The Mousetrap.” His physical comedy and timing in “Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson” are highlights of the evening, contributing to the overall buoyancy of the show.

Brilliantly Crafted Story by Kate Hamill

The play is written by the ever-talented Kate Hamill, whose work has quickly gained recognition for its innovative, feminist takes on classic literature. Hamill has made waves in the theater world with her adaptations of iconic stories such as “Pride and Prejudice” and “Sense and Sensibility.” Her clever writing is both thought-provoking and laugh-out-loud funny, blending slapstick humor with sharp social commentary.

In “Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson,” Hamill offers a fresh perspective on the dynamic between Sherlock and Watson, exploring themes of friendship, loyalty, and the often-unappreciated brilliance of women in a male-dominated world. The playwright’s success extends well beyond this production, with multiple Off-Broadway hits and regional productions bringing her adaptations to audiences around the country. Hamill’s works have earned her numerous accolades, including nominations for the Drama League Awards and recognition from The Wall Street Journal as “Playwright of the Year.”

A Cohesive Production Team

Behind the scenes, the creative team has worked tirelessly to bring this witty mystery to life on the Red Barn Theatre stage. Mimi McDonald, a familiar face to theatergoers in Key West, directs the show with a keen eye for pacing and tone. McDonald’s direction keeps the energy high while allowing for moments of sincerity, balancing humor with emotional depth.

Gary McDonald & Jack McDonald helm the scenic design, creating a minimalist yet effective backdrop that allows the characters and story to take center stage. The flexible set pieces smoothly transition from one scene to the next, keeping the momentum of the play intact.

Nancy 3 Hoffman, (Props)

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Show

“Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson” is a delightfully refreshing take on the Sherlock Holmes mythos, filled with clever twists, engaging performances, and sharp wit. The cast’s chemistry, combined with Kate Hamill’s sharp writing, makes for a fast-paced, thoroughly enjoyable theater experience.

Whether you’re a fan of detective stories or just looking for a fun night out, this production is sure to entertain. The show runs through February 29, 2025, at the Red Barn Theatre, located at 319 Duval St, Key West, FL. Performances are held Wednesday through Saturday at 8:00 PM, with select Sunday matinees at 2:00 PM.

Tickets can be purchased directly from the Red Barn Theatre’s website at www.redbarntheatre.com or by calling the box office at (305) 296-9911. Given the intimate setting of the Red Barn, seats are limited, so it’s best to book early. Don’t miss this witty, clever, and thoroughly enjoyable reimagining of one of literature’s greatest detectives!

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