Watson, The Final Problem
By Fern Siegel (Posted 5/31/24)
The name is a familiar one. Sherlock Holmes debuted in 1887 in “A Study in Scarlet” and almost from inception, the deductive powers of the world’s first consulting detective seized the public’s imagination. The canon consists of 58 short stories and four novels written by Arthur Conan Doyle. And as every fan knows, his mortal enemy is the evil genius Professor James Moriarty.
The last Holmes story was written in 1927. Since then, Hollywood movies, TV and radio shows, and plays about him have flourished. Such is the fascination with the famed sleuth, he is never out of style.
Tim Marriott has recreated his own Holmesian tribute, complete with the story of the Reichenbach Falls, in the solo show Watson, The Final Problem, now off-Broadway at 59E59 Theaters. The title is deliberate, as Doyle’s short story “The Final Problem,” was meant to end with Holmes’ death.
But as Dr. John Watson, Holmes’ trusted friend, warns his audience: “Always expect the unexpected.”
The 60-minute drama is based on the works of Doyle, and that alone, should command attention. “I’ve been doctor, soldier, husband, detective,” explains Watson. And now, in the twilight of his years, Watson reflects on a world where both the great Sherlock Holmes and his beloved wife, Mary, are gone.
Marriott is adept at recreating a time and place — his affection for Holmes and ability to spin a tale are clear. It is enjoyable to pass the time in his company, but it takes too long to get to the essence of his story. The first 15 minutes drag, and that’s tough in a short show. Modulating his voice, adding music or more sound design to underscore key moments would keep the pace livelier, which makes co-writer Bert Coules’ directorial choices problematic.
Once Marriott gets to the heart of the matter, however, the audience is more engaged — and Watson proves to be a pleasant respite.
Marriott, known for the BBC TV comedy “The Brittas Empire,” is also a successful playwright, co-writing Mengele and starring in the upcoming Appraisal, which opens June 12 at 59E59, part of the Brits Off-Broadway festival.