The gender-bending whodunit is a hoot at the Northglenn Arts Center
Phamaly Theatre Company is up to it again with amasterful production of Miss Holmes currently on stage at Northglenn Arts. Based on the exploits of Mr. Sherlock Holmes, this version is spearheaded by a gender-bending Miss Holmes (Mel Schaffer – they, them) and Dr. Dorothy Watson (Miranda Ireland – she, her). Written by Christopher M. Walsh and directed by Mare Trevathan, the production is a loving tribute to a nearly lost genre: the murder mystery and whodunit theatrical presentation.
The mission of Phamaly Theatre Company is to be a creative home for theatre artists with disabilities; to model a disability-affirmative theatrical process; and to upend conventional narratives by transforming individuals, audiences and the world.
The time and place are 19th-century Victorian London — certainly not a time when women’s roles were inclusive. However, our heroines, Holmes and Watson, bust through the glass ceiling and take on jobs often filled only by men.
The story begins with a young wife, Lizzy Chapman (Katelyn Kendrick – they,them), receiving an anonymous note warning about her husband, who may not be exactly who he claims to be. Lizzy calls upon the aid of Holmes and Watson for assistance and they work to connect the dots and learn why there are so many shocking murders in London.
Holmes is too brilliant for her own good. Her sometimes-erratic behavior leads her to be institutionalized on occasion, while Dr. Watson manages to hold down the fort in the only hospital in London that employs female doctors. In their off time, they are out solving gruesome murder mysteries in the style of the original Holmes and Watson.
In the role of Holmes, Schaffer is called upon to create a character with whom everyone is familiar — only different. They are well-rounded in the role and bring a sense of enthusiasm and excitement to the titular character while doing a remarkable job delving deep into the emotional turmoil Holmes experiences throughout the play. Schaffer, a London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts graduate, is making their debut with Phamaly in the splashy role of Miss Holmes.
Faithful companion
As played by Ireland, Watson is a true-blue companion to Holmes, following her lead in the ongoing investigations. She intends to assist in solving the crimes while maintaining her other responsibilities as a doctor. Ireland has created a sincere and inquisitive character, giving a highly laudable performance.
The entire cast must be recognized for the unique and thoughtful characterizations they bring to each role. Especially noteworthy is Kendrick as Lizzy Chapman, an understudy with only a few days to prepare. They are in command of the role for the entire performance, never missing a beat.
Mare Trevathan has directed the production in a straightforward manner, serving the play well. She has streamlined a very wordy script, making it flow smoothly and understandably. She also highlights the relationship between Holmes and Watson, giving it a sense of familiarity that establishes their bond. It is a challenging show to direct, and Trevathan has handled it beautifully.
Miss Holmes is a delightful way to spend several hours in the theatre. As always, Phamaly has produced a winning production highly entertaining from start to finish.
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