**** Recommended Although I’m not a Sherlock Holmes fan, I really did enjoy the Towle Theater’s production of Ms. Holmes and Ms. Watson, Apt 2B. Kate Hamil’s play describes itself as “Cheerfully desecrating the stories of Sir Arthur Connan Doyle.” All the key characters from Conan Doyle’s books are there – in one form or another – and the cast has fun portraying them. 3 ½ Spotlights
Sherlock Holmes (Whitney Minarik), who insists her name is not Shirley, is positive her career is over so she spends her time brooding in her apartment. When her landlady, Mrs. Hudson (Laura Noigebauer), rents the extra bedroom to Dr. Joan Watson (Natalie Rae), she’s not exactly thrilled.
Still, Sherlock is looking for a case, so when newly promoted former constable Lestrade (Gary Murphy) come to her door, she decides Dr. Watson, who vigorously denies she’s a doctor, will be a perfect assistant. Watson absolutely refuses but Sherlock ignores her objections because "the game's afoot." One case involves a certain Mrs. Drebber (Noigebauer), another a Mr. Elliot Monk (Murphy).
Sherlock swans around with a magnifying glass, Watson finds clues on the internet. They find they actually work well together – at least until Irene Adler (Noigebauer) mesmerizes Sherlock into helping her. Then the truly evil Moriarity (no hints on his identity), Sherlock’s nemesis, appears on the scene with a dastardly scheme.
Whitney Minarik totally channels Basil Rathbone in facial expressions (that somber look) and her mannerisms. She even learned to fence for the part. Natalie Rae, whose character is going through a lot of angst, is a perfect foil for her. In my opinion, Laura Noigebauer stole the show. Playing three totally different characters isn’t easy but with different voices and mannerisms she made it look easy – and she had a great mwa-ha-ha laugh. In addition to Lestrade and Monk, Gary Murphy, wearing a top hat and tails, introduced the show. He too got to unleash his dark and diabolical side.
Kudos to Director Jim LaPietra who also designed the interesting set.
Ms. Holmes and Ms. Watson, Apt 2B runs through September 21st at the Towle Theater, 5205 Hohman Avenue, Hammond. Street parking is available on both Hohman Avenue and State Street. Free parking is available in the State Street lot directly north of the theater.
Running time is approximately 2 hours, 15 minutes with an intermission. Performances are Friday at 7:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $24. FYI (219) 937-8780 or www.towletheater.org.