What happens when you cross Charles Dickens with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle? You get a world of familiar, sharply drawn characters that audiences can settle into instantly—wrapped inside a clever, modern twist on a timeless Christmas tale.
On stage from December 3rd until the 20th, at Ottawa Little Theatre, A Sherlock Carol is a whimsical romp through Victorian England with a holiday message of love and hope. Ebenezer Scrooge may be dead, but his final philanthropic act remains unfinished when a rare blue carbon diamond disappears—along with his will.
It takes some coaxing, but Sherlock Holmes eventually takes up the case. Played with precision and emotional depth by Sean C. Dwyer, Sherlock is a tormented figure who, like Scrooge in A Christmas Carol, finds himself haunted by spirits. His legendary nemesis, James Moriarty, is long gone, yet Sherlock continues to see visions of the criminal mastermind who once ruled London’s underworld. The play leans into the Victorian-era fascination with spiritualism, which adds a surprisingly rich layer beneath the festive trappings.
Ebenezer himself—now a spirit—is portrayed by Robert McMullen, who injects welcome humour into the otherwise shadowy, dimly lit world of the play. He acts as both comic relief and a guiding conscience for the unravelling detective.
The remaining cast — Michael Hart, Liz Verwijz, Scott Simms, and Christina Roman — juggle multiple roles with ease. Part of the show’s charm comes from these quick changes: Simms is especially delightful as Mrs. Dilber, Ebenezer’s elderly maid, while Verwijz perfectly captures the well-intentioned ineptitude of Inspector Lestrade.
Christian Giansante and Chelsey Prince’s symmetrically split set design is both clever and efficient, allowing the stage to transform seamlessly across multiple locations.
Director Josh Kemp delivers a tight, entertaining production that more than earns the price of admission. And, like the story’s spirits, the extensive backstage team — sound, lighting, makeup, dressers, and more — is the invisible force that makes the entire production shine.
The only downside for audiences: A Sherlock Carol is completely sold out. The entire run. If you’re a fan of community theatre, this is your cue to invest in a season membership and guarantee your seats. At $180 for a nine-play season, it’s excellent value — and an equally excellent gift idea.
For information and tickets on the 2026 season that begins in February 2026, visit 2026 Season – Ottawa Little Theatre
Photos: Maria Vartanova
