Midsomer Murders – The Killing At Badger’s Drift At The New Theatre In Oxford Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Joanna Woodburn
Based on the book by Caroline Graham and directed by Guy Unsworth, the stage adaptation of ITV’s iconic series, Midsomer Murders – The Killings at Badger’s Drift is now on tour and showing at the New Theatre in Oxford.
There can’t be many shows which are as widely known as Midsomer Murders. Combining the unlikely combination of quiet charm with imaginative homicide, against a rural village backdrop, the TV series has graced our screens since 1997 when the first episode, The Killings at Badger’s Drift was shown. Midsomer Murders went on to be a hugely acclaimed long-running hit. For over 130 episodes and still going, the show’s cast list has been as impressive as the story writing and its body count more than a little alarming.
As a bit of a fan of ‘cosy crime’, part of the pleasure is knowing exactly what is coming – in this case, a murder, very early on, is never in doubt. Indeed, the enjoyment is all in how it unfolds and the winning recipe of murder, tension and intrigue is always served up with a twinkle in the eye, so the murderous intent never feels too grim.
In the stage adaptation, an elderly lady is found dead in her home in the village of Badger’s Drift. Initially, her death is attributed to old age but doubts emerge as her friend, Lucy Bellringer (Julie Legrand) refuses to accept the official explanation. This leads to DCI Tom Barnaby (Daniel Casey) and Sergeant Gavin Troy (James Bradwell) being called in to investigate and before too long, village secrets begin to emerge and murder naturally takes the spotlight.
It is fitting that for this stage adaptation Daniel Casey has been promoted. Casey originally played Detective Sergeant Troy in the TV series and brings a sense of continuity to the central role as well what felt like a great deal of affection from the audience. Casey is perfectly cast in the role of the quietly thoughtful yet shrewd Barnaby, with a strong and well-acted performance.
James Bradwell gives a commendable performance as the likeable Sergeant Troy, bringing warmth and an ease to the role. The rapport between the two characters is convincing, with superb comic timing and lots of playing moments for laughs, making them a pleasure to watch.
The action of the play is brisk and dynamic, helped by the clever, slick moving set design which also gives some brilliant funny moments. You have to keep your wits about you – with many clues, red herrings and twists and turns to keep track of. The production succeeds in capturing the essence of the TV series without ever taking itself too seriously, with many laugh-out-loud moments that make it feel as much like a comedy as a mystery, all the way through to the final big reveal.
Lively and surprisingly laugh-filled,, Midsomer Murders – The Killings at Badger’s Drift delivers a great evening of entertainment for long-time fans of the show and newcomers alike.
Rating: 4/5
Midsomer Murders – The Killings At Badger’s Drift, runs from Wednesday 29th April 2026 to Saturday 2nd May 2026, for more information or to book tickets visit here.