Midsomer Murders The Killings At Badger's Drift ~ Theatre Royal, Nottingham
Reviewed by Helen McWilliams
Star rating 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Midsomer Murders, is one of ITV's so-called cosy murder mystery television programmes based on the novels of Caroline Graham. Although if you've watched them all (I have!) then you'll know only too well that the setting may be cosy, however the body count per episode and the brutal nature of many of the murders makes for a far from cosy ambience. I'm shuddering as I type upon recalling the fate of a character called Mike Spicer in series 8 who was played by one of my all-time favourite actors, Robert Daws. Then there's the suicidal leap from the church roof for the late, great Richard Briers as Stephen Wentworth in series two. I was already familiar with The Killings At Badger's Drift as it is the very first episode of the highly successful and much loved TV drama. Would it translate on stage? I was keen to find out and my plus one on this occasion was my 12 year old son. He has watched zero episodes of Midsomer Murders before and is in no way a fan of murder mysteries, so all in all - the afternoon was set to be interesting on all counts.
"When well-loved spinster Emily Simpson is found dead in the picturesque village of Badger’s Drift, her friend Lucy Bellringer refuses to accept it was an accident. DCI Tom Barnaby and Sergeant Gavin Troy are called in to investigate, uncovering a world of hidden passions, long-buried secrets and deadly rivalries.
With eccentric villagers, shocking twists and an unforgettable reveal, The Killings at Badger’s Drift is a classic whodunnit that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Bringing to life the wit, charm, and chilling suspense of the beloved TV series and original series of books, this gripping and thrilling new show is set to delight audiences."
The set and scenery grabbed my attention from the beginning, credit to all involved as it framed the action majestically. There's a simplicity to the layout and indeed a number of 'actions' on stage such as driving a car - however it works and adds to the slightly comedic element that this version boasts. Add in excerpts from the hauntingly familiar theme tune and I'm in the zone. Bring on the murders, all of which I was anticipating before they took place due to my prior knowledge of the episode, yet still landed with enough clout to make an impact. The fact that I more or less knew what was coming was helpful to my son, he was engaged throughout and found a few scenes jump-worthy.
Daniel Casey steps seamlessly into John Nettles' shoes as Inspector Barnaby, in fact I can't think of anyone better to take on the role in the absence of Mr Nettles himself. James Bradwell was perhaps more slapstick as Sergeant Troy (Casey's role in the television adaptation) than I recall, however on stage this was a welcome character trait. Julie Legrand is a class act, she seems to effortlessly move from character to character playing multiple residents of Midsomer superbly. Delightfully gossipy and with an air of armchair detective as Lucy Bellringer. Self-pitying and drawing the wrong sort of attention to herself as Phyllis Cadell. John Dougall equally gave excellent performances as more than one resident. Dougall's portrayal of Iris Rainbird possessed a 'Hinge and Bracket' (look them up!) flavour which enhanced the role tremendously. Indeed every cast member should be commended as there is not a weak link amongst them.
If you're a fan of the TV show, I don't think you will be disappointed. If you're unfamiliar with it, this might be the perfect introduction and inspire you to tune in to an episode or two on the box. As for my young plus one, he thought that the production deserved every one of the five shiny stars we've jointly awarded. The atmospheric lighting and music alerted him to the imminent grisly demises that were afoot and he is keen to have a go at watching the series now. Although if he's tuning in to that episode I mentioned that stars Robert Daws, I'm not watching it with him!
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