It's a mark of my provincial American perspective that I incorrectly assumed that one of the titular characters of Temple Theatre's production came from New Jersey prior to attending it. Such is the case with Sherlock Holmes lore here in the States. We cling to simple talismans like his pipe and magnifying glass, while not always appreciating the place, times, and characters involved. It's difficult for an adaption of this towering literary figure to properly convey the mood and setting to an American audience.
Thus I attended the Temple production of Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Jersey Lily with some trepidation, and left it pleasantly surprised. This production is a great example of everyone working together to elevate a work with professionalism: the right team, with the right vision, can make even a prosaic script an enjoyable experience.
The mystery at the heart of the show is a hodge podge of classic Holmes: there's blackmail, a damsel in distress, a threat of scandal, disguise and danger; even Moriarty makes a requisite appearance. The show also dips into the world of Holmesian pastiche with a famous guest appearances, this time in the form of Oscar Wilde. The script repeatedly includes quotes from the works of both Wilde and Doyle.
The main reason this script (rather bare on its own) doesn't bog down with its many parts and allusions is to the strength of the actors. Both David McClutchey as Holmes and Tim Brosnan as Oscar Wilde are every inch the character. I found Brosnan's Wilde delightful, a very proper dandy with just the right amount of charm. McClutchey gave Holmes an air of gravity and actual feeling without breaking the man's coolness, even when in disguise. He also managed to deliver deductions with a true zest for the logic innate. His stage presence prevented the comic bits from overcoming the mystery.
The entire ensemble played admirably, if not at times given much to do by the script. Watson as played by Bill Saunders was suitably fun, winsome, and loyal, but unfortunately was cut from most of Act II. Betsy Henderson as the titular Lily provided the main character arc for the show, gradually revealing more of her vulnerability and true feelings as the play progressed, and able to stand toe-to-toe with Holmes on occasion without actually supplanting him. Moriarty by Jeffrey McGullion was suitably dangerous, and though his threats were played for laughs, I found him truly menacing in places. Though the script insisted on having him more interested in Holmes than profit, McGullion kept Moriarty as a true threat in spite of his villainous laughter. Pauline Cobrda and Stephen Moore, as the comedic sidekicks of the piece, performed well, hugging the line between comedy and farce without tripping over it.
The set design made great use of the limited space of Temple's stage, allowing scene changes to happen quickly. My favorite set was 221B Baker Street, with the rows of books and weapons hanging in the background, the science elements up front and center, and the comfortable chairs for Watson and Holmes (not to mention the occasional client) within easy, familiar reach of all. Lighting and sound helped each scene change really reflect the new space. While Baker Street is full of warm orange light, Moriarty's lair was filled with cool blues and shadows. Another location, where some of the characters nearly met an unfortunate end, employed a dripping pipe effect that faded as the lights gradually came up. The best overall effect came from a jewel case, which when opened cued the entire stage to darken and a blue light to reflect up into the holder's face. The artistic vision as delivered by director Corey Brunish and the entire production team made for a sensually stimulating show.
General audiences will certainly enjoy this show's comedy and intrigue, while aficionados of the genre will find plenty to appreciate. The story has some hints at impropriety (there is a threatened scandal, remember) but is suitable for most ages. Ticket prices are between $19 and $23 dollars depending on night, with discounts available for students, school employees, and active military. Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Jersey Lily runs through April 6. Further information may be found at the Temple Theatre website.
Full Disclosure: I have worked for Temple Theatre before, and received a free ticket to this show.
