Slade Wolfe have built themselves a strong reputation for creating fascinating new writing based on period pieces. This take on the women in Sherlock Holmes’ life is another well-crafted insight, written and performed by Lexi Wolfe. She effortlessly embodies the three different characters, giving very different performances for each despite a brief change time between the three. She also holds the record for portraying Mary Morstan (Watson) more times than any actress in history, a fascinating fact.
Wolfe’s Mrs Hudson is a wonderfully warm and entertaining character. The personality of Mrs Hudson is clear: she cares for Mr Holmes and Dr Watson, but in true Scottish fashion shows this by complaining about all the things they do wrong. A swift change into Mary Watson brings a much younger woman to the fore, one who is caring but dealing with the challenge of recognising the impact of Sherlock Holmes on her husband. We feel for her as she describes the challenges of a man who tears around the world supporting the great detective. Another quick change and the last person on stage is more worldly-wise but somewhat world-weary Irene Adler, although she challenges us to the end.
It takes great skill and ability to change not only character but physicality and demeanour: each character is distinctly different and brings with them their own unique qualities. Wolfe embodies her three characters fully, bringing them alive as three-dimensional characters in only 20 minutes each - a marvel. While the entrances may not have worked as effectively every time and the writing may benefit from a little trimming, these are small quibbles. For those who love Sherlock Holmes, or new takes on historical work and want to see writing that complements Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s original text, then this is absolutely the show for you.
The show runs on alternative dates in the same space in conjunction with 1 King, 2 Princes and Shakespeare’s Lie.
Show Time: 11,13,15,19,21,23 Aug @ 19:05
theSpace @ Surgeons’ Hall
Ticket Prices: £10-£13
https://www.edfringe.com/tickets/whats-on/baker-street-ladies
Space accessibility: Wheelchair access type: Level Access. Stairs: None. Number of stairs is provided as guidance and is not in addition to any wheelchair access type (lift/ramp etc) stated above. Wheelchair Access, Wheelchair Accessible Toilets. May not apply to all performances.
Age suitability: 8+ (Guideline). Babes in arms policy: Babies do not require a ticket. Policy applies to: Children under 18 months.