03 Jun 2026
A brand-new adaptation of Sherlock Holmes will be opening this summer’s 12th annual Roman Theatre Open Air Festival on Friday.
OVO is presenting a gripping new reimagining of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic novel, adapted and directed by Royal Television Society award-winner, Mark O’Sullivan.
Audiences will step into Sherlock’s world, as they follow Holmes, Watson and a veritable murder of Conan Doyle’s colourful characters – through this madcap whirlwind of mystery, featuring some of the best known tales alongside some of the lesser-known gems.
This reworking of Sherlock Holmes brings beloved characters and intriguing mysteries to life – taking the audience on a journey through iconic parts of London, to country retreats and dramatic mountain-tops.
In an impressive twist, the cast will be multi-roling by playing 25 characters between four actors, including Anna MacLeod Franklin (The Mystery of Mr E, Amazon); Max Gallagher (War Horse, National Theatre); Lachlan McCall (The Talented Mr Ripley, UK tour); and Jessica Vickers (Harry Potter And The Cursed Child, Sonia Friedman Productions).
Director and adaptor Mark O’Sullivan said: “I’m excited to bring to life such an enduring icon with a fresh spin on the classic detective stories.
“We have four actors playing 25 characters between them, in many different locations. So it will be an incredible display of the talent and versatility of our actors – as well as our set and costume designer!”
An acclaimed comedy writer who has written and starred in shows for Channel 4 and ITV, Mark added: “Comedy is a big part of my life. It has been such a fun opportunity to take the text that is already hilarious and to hopefully ‘turn the funny up’ wherever I can, so expect humorous antics throughout.
“There is also a real heart to it through the beautiful friendship between Sherlock and Dr Watson, and these stories are all ultimately about human nature.”
Join Sherlock Holmes, as he explores the power of observation and the triumph of logic, alongside its running theme of social injustice – all in the breathtaking setting of the UK’s oldest producing theatre, for a starlit sleuthing adventure.
Having staged more than 100 productions over the past 22 years, OVO founder and artistic director, Adam Nichols said: “We are delighted to be bringing another of OVO’s signature literary adaptations to our unique open air theatre, and Sherlock Holmes will be the perfect show to kick off the summer festival. There’s something magical about live theatre under the stars, especially in a setting with such a rich historical backdrop.”
Now in its 12th year, OVO’s flagship Roman Theatre Open Air Festival has become a cornerstone of the UK’s outdoor theatre calendar, welcoming more than 16,000 visitors every summer, and runs from June 5 to August 31. Tickets are on sale from £15. Festival Season Tickets are also available from £80. For the full festival line-up and to book tickets go to www.ovo.org.uk
Photo by Hannah Couzens
