REVIEW: THAT'S A BIT OF SHEER LUCK! Old Red Lion Theatre 27 – 31 May 2024

“A paws-itively hilarious detective adventure!” ★★★½

Sherlock Holmes used to be the most sought-after detective in London, but not anymore. There's a new genius in town named Sheer Luck, who doesn’t need a Watson because he has Whatsitt.

The character introductions are skillfully handled, quickly immersing the audience in the world of Sheerluck and Whatsitt. Joseph shines as the brilliant sidekick to Sheerluck, whose bumbling yet endearing antics drive much of the comedy. The narrative takes a clever turn when Sheerluck is framed by the villains and sent to prison based on circumstantial evidence, adding a layer of intrigue to the otherwise lighthearted plot.

The plot revolves around the mission to catch the preposterous puppy-plucker and solve the crime, blending classic detective tropes with a fresh, comedic twist. The villains' scheme to frame Sheerluck adds tension and keeps the audience engaged from start to finish.

The physical comedy is both effective and inventive, achieving impressive results with minimal means. From the hilarious dance scenes to the canine competition, every moment is packed with laughter. The clever wordplay and puns are a constant delight, with the C.U.N.T (Canine Union National Talent) being a particularly memorable highlight.

The show’s keen attention to detail in staging and scenography, combined with high-energy performances, sets the stage for an unforgettable comedic experience. However, the relentless high energy can feel overwhelming at times. Allowing for moments of calm or silence would help with pacing and prevent the show from feeling too "shouty."

While the story is highly entertaining, it sometimes feels chaotic, trying to juggle too many ideas at once. Focusing on a more robust storyline would enhance the overall experience and strengthen the conclusion. Additionally, the interval felt unnecessary and disrupted the pacing.

The lighting design by Toby Ison is well-crafted, aiding in smooth transitions and creating atmospheric moments throughout.

The ensemble cast does an excellent job of bringing the story to life. Standouts include Beth Rennie as Sheerluck, who steals the show with her gravitas and wit; Lawrence Harp as Sherlock Holmes, who delivers a great physical performance; and Matt Entwistle as Joe Whatsitt, who balances naivete with determination, rendering an endearing character.

In summary, "That's A Bit of Sheer Luck!" is a rollicking comedy that breathes new life into the Sherlock Holmes genre. With its inventive physical comedy, clever wordplay, and high-energy performances, it's a must-see for fans of detective stories and comedy alike. Sherlock Holmes may have been put out of the market by Sheer Luck, but this show ensures that the detective genre remains as entertaining as ever.

THAT'S A BIT OF SHEER LUCK! at Old Red Lion Theatre  27th - 31st May 2024

Tickets are available here

Written by Emily & Beth Rennie

Directed by Phoebe White

Composer: Manav Kher

Lighting design: Toby Ison

Produced by Big Licks Theatre Company

Cast: Beth Rennie, Emily Rennie, Lawrence Harp, Alec Taylor, Matt Entwistle

Reviewed by Jess Gonzalez