Sherlock Holmes Meets ‘A Christmas Carol’ in Boston Holiday Production

A Sherlock Carol, a new holiday mystery play at Lyric Stage Company of Boston, will offer audiences a bit of mystery and Christmas this season. 

On stage now through Sunday, Dec. 21, A Sherlock Carol merges the story of the legendary detective Sherlock Holmes with the world of Ebenezer Scrooge. Here's how the Lyric Stage Company describes the production:

“Moriarity is as dead as a doornail. Sherlock Holmes is depressed. Without his No. 1 adversary, what's the point of it all? Enter a grown-up Tiny Tim and the mysterious death of everyone's favorite humbug, and it's a festive literary mash-up with surprises around every corner. This fresh and charming reimagining of two of the most beloved literary characters is a 'Dickens' of a yuletide detective story that's as 'good as gold.' Six actors transform before your eyes in a playful, clever, and joyous holiday comedy that is 'elementary' for a festive outing sure to delight audiences of all ages.” 

“Everyone knows A Christmas Carol, and everyone has an idea about Sherlock Holmes. The marriage of these two is very fun,” said Paul Melendy, who plays Sherlock, in a statement shared with WBZ-TV CBS News Boston.

For director Ilyse Robbins, the thematic and visual harmony between Holmes and Scrooge makes for a natural pairing.

“There are many Sherlock stories that take place during Christmas. There's also something about Sherlock and his look that feels a little Scrooge-like,” Robbins shared with WBZ.

“I think audiences are going to really, really enjoy seeing this guy take on something that is not what perhaps his audiences are used to,” said actor Leigh Barrett, one of four ensemble members who play various roles in the performance.

Production design and special effects take center stage in the performance, featuring ambitious sets, lighting, fog, and projections that heighten the mystery.

A Sherlock Carol runs for two hours and includes a 15-minute intermission. Tickets are available on the Lyric Stage Company of Boston's website.