One of the great privileges of reviewing theatre productions has been spending the past eight years reviewing the Blue Apple Theatre productions. I have watched many of the performers over the years take on a variety of roles. My biggest observation is how as a group they have grown in confidence.
Their latest production Sherlock Holmes and the Thief of Antiquity is a completely different production than previous years. The staging is less and the focus is more centred on the actors and every single one stepped up to the job and performed with their hearts and souls.
Sam Dace in the role of Sherlock Holmes played the famous detective with style. Taking on board the mind of Holmes who logically solved crimes by unraveling clues and riddles. Once Holmes explained how he reached the solution it appeared blindingly obvious.
Dr Watson the famous Dr who accompanied Holmes for many years was played by Tom Hatchett. Another strong performer who took to the role with ease. The rapport between the two of them onstage is strong and they were a perfect choice for the roles.
However, the special guest performing with Blue Apple was soloist Olumide Cole. At just 16 years old he commanded the stage and delivered his solo numbers perfectly. Hopefully, the company will see him back again in the future.
This year the absence on the stage of James Benfield was noticeable to me. However, there’s a very good reason for this he was the co-director trainee for this production. Congratulations James what a fantastic opportunity to be part of this incredible supportive company and take your career to a new level.
Everyone on the stage deserves a special mention, but due to the number of cast members, this isn’t possible. Each and everyone played their role and brought the Sherlock Holmes story to life. After all, Sherlock was neurodivergent too and knew what it was like to be different and learned to use his skills to his advantage. Just like all those who play their part in Blue Apple.
I have watched some of the actors start from walking onto the stage in previous years and just being part of the group to now speaking a few lines without too much prompting. These actors deserve to be very proud of themselves.
For more information about Sherlock Holmes and the Thief of Antiquity and more about the Blue Apple Theatre please visit the links below.
Four Stars.
https://blueappletheatre.com/performances/2025/6/11/sherlock-holmes-and-the-thief-of-antiquity
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
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