Sherlock Holmes and the Twelve Days of Christmas – Birmingham Rep

⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 4-Star Review

“clever, chaotic, and full of Christmas charm”

Sherlock Holmes and the Twelve Days of Christmas arrives at the Birmingham Rep as a witty, high-energy festive romp that brings real seasonal cheer to Baker Street. Written by Humphrey Ker and David Reed, who also star as Holmes and Dr Watson respectively, the production delivers a spirited evening of Christmas fun with a gleefully chaotic edge.

From the moment it begins, the show bursts with pace, colour and Christmas mischief, carried by a talented ensemble who hurl themselves into the madness with total commitment. Characters such as Inspector Lestrade [John Kearns] and Arthur Stone [Cameron Johnson] add to the panto-flavoured humour, leaning into the show’s sillier instincts without ever losing the charm of the Holmes universe.

The musical elements from Andrew Loyd Webber and Time Rice no less are used thoughtfully throughout, supporting transitions and helping to build the story’s rhythm. At times, however, the score leans further into traditional musical-theatre territory than the production itself seems committed to, occasionally pulling focus from the comedy-mystery style the show wears most comfortably. Still, there are clever stylistic nods and moments of real atmosphere that elevate key scenes.

The design is simple yet highly effective, conjuring a playful but convincing Victorian London. While the production sometimes struggles to decide whether it wants to be a musical, a panto, or a farce, the sheer enthusiasm of the creative team ensures the tonal blend feels more exuberant than confused.

A standout performance comes from David Reed as Dr John Watson, who delivers the show’s strongest combination of humour and heart. As a central comedic force, Watson grounds the story beautifully, becoming its emotional anchor.

The arrival of Miss Faversham [Helena Wilson] brings a delightful shift in energy. Her razor-sharp wit and intellectual sparring with Holmes reveal a rarely seen side of the great detective: suddenly flustered, even outmatched, by a worthy rival.

The concept, a string of murders linked to the Twelve Days of Christmas,is clever and comes with some enjoyable twists. Yet what the show gains in wit and panto-style humour, it sometimes loses in suspense. The first half builds tension impressively, but the second half leans more heavily into comedy, softening the mystery’s bite.

Nevertheless, if you’re after clever, light-hearted festive fun wrapped in the magic of Victorian London, this is a thoroughly entertaining night out, clever, chaotic, and full of Christmas charm.

Freddy Goymer
Creative