Today we have a very special interview for you! This year marls 120 years since Sir Arthur Conan Doyle introduced us to the world of Sherlock Holmes and to commemorate this, there is a very special stage adaptation heading to a theatre near you kicking off on the 28th at the Harlequin Theatre in Redhill .
The Hound of The Baskervilles directed by Martin Parsons, is set in a radio studio on stage and combines sound effects to create a dramatic new adaptation. The show stars Doctor Who stars Colin Baker (Doctor Who, BBC; The Brothers, BBC) and Terry Molloy (The Archers, BBC Radio 4; Doctor Who, BBC) will take to the stage in this
classic detective tale.
Today I chat to Dee Sadler who plays many roles in the play including Doctor Mortimer.
Hello Dee! Nice to meet you! Tell us about your character that you play in Hounds of the Baskervilles?
Hi there. I play three roles in this production. Dr Mortimer, a kindly, country doctor who turns to Sherlock Holmes after the untimely death of his friend, Sir Charles. The postmistress at Grimpen, who’s a bit of a jobsworth and Laura Lyons, the impetuous daughter of Mr Frankland, a seeming victim of circumstance, but with a backbone of steel, who fights back.
What made you decide to take part in the production?
I was thrilled to be asked and jumped at the chance. It’s a classic Sherlock Holmes story and the brilliant pairing of Colin Baker and Terry Molloy made it a no brainer.
Tell us about what makes this version unique?
Every version of a play is unique in its own way. This version is presented as a radio play onstage, which is a one off in itself, it’s fun to watch and get caught up in.
This story is definitely a celebration of just how fantastic Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was as an author – what has been your favourite thing about bringing this story to life?
Exploring the story with all its twists and turns, in depth, plus all of the characters are so rich and fully realised, it’s like sitting down to a banquet.
What is the thing that you are looking forward to the most about touring the show?
Visiting theatres and places I’ve never been to before and to some I already have, also meeting so many new faces along the way is always a lot of fun.
It is a fantastic cast as well – it must be fun to work with each other?
It’s been a complete adventure with lots of laughs on a daily basis…and biscuits, obviously.
Also tell us about the set up on stage – what can the audience expect from it?
This production is presented as a radio play, being recorded live on stage. It’s like being a fly on the wall for those watching it and us performing it.
Every actor plays both Sherlock and Watson differently – what can you tell us about the versions that appear in this play?
It’s always down to the chemistry of the actors playing those particular parts and Colin and Terry, together, are mesmeric.
There are so many great stories in the Sherlock Universe. What is your favourite Sherlock Holmes story and why?
It’s this one. The Hound of the Baskervilles, because it was the first Sherlock Holmes story I’d ever heard and there is something intrinsically creepy about any Moor. People love to be spooked. I do.
Also when we talk about Sherlock Holmes, we have to talk about how other actors have portrayed the character – which one is your favourite and why?
Basil Rathbone and Jeremy Brett immediately spring to mind, but Benedict Cumberbatch totally nailed it too, for me. He and Martin Freeman aced it, I reckon.
What three things are essential items for you when you go on tour?
For me personally, an unputdownable book… travel wash and a big bag.
Finally, why should people come and see the play?
Because it’s a classic – a jolly, spooky romp and this time of year is just perfect for it.
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