The Hound Of The Baskervilles Review - Devonshire Park Theatre Eastbourne

Eastbourne Theatres never fail to impress when it comes to it's in-house Summer productions.

This years is based on the Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic Sherlock Holmes story, The Hound of the Baskervilles, which has been turned into a stage adaption by Steven Canny and John Nicholson and follows in the footsteps of previous summer productions such as The Invisible Man and The 39 Steps.

It's hard to believe that the two hour theatre show, only features a cast of three! Tom Richardson, Andrew Pollard and Ben Roddy, who superbly work together to have the audience laughing out loud at humorous moments in the tale of death and disaster in Dartmoor! 

The story is well known, albeit slightly adapted for a 2024 audience. Sir Charles Baskerville is mauled to death on his Dartmoor estate in the 1880s,with a look of terror etched on his face, and the paw prints of a huge hound beside his body, Sherlock Holmes is summoned from Baker Street, with his assistant Dr Watson to investigate.

Andrew Pollard, who originated the role of Phileas Fogg in Around the World in 80 Days for New Vic Theatre in 2013, makes an excellent Eastbourne debut. 

In addition to being an authoritative Holmes, Andrew throws himself into several other characters which requires multiple costume changes, including a butler and a Spanish senorita! 

Tom Richardson is a convincing Sir Henry Baskerville with his warmth and charm and Ben Roddy takes the audience on a journey by portraying Dr Watson. All three actors show impeccable timing and superb chemistry.

The production benefits hugely from the set and costume design of Julie Godrey, the lighting design of Ryan Tate and the sound design of Charlie Tipler. 

The show runs until 31st August at The Devonshire Park Theatre - Don't miss it!