Father Brown – A Crime at Christmas At Theatre Royal Nottingham Review

Reviewed by Alexander Wilde

Synonymous with Summer and a staple of East Midlands theatre, the acclaimed ‘Colin McIntyre Classic Thriller Season’ is once again delighting audiences at Nottingham’s Theatre Royal with four gripping plays. This week is the lighter, second production ‘Father Brown – A Crime at Christmas,’ brought to the stage by the talented Tabs Productions team.

Written by (and starring) the brilliant John Goodrum, the play is based on the mysteries of the fictional Father Brown – a famous detective character created by G.K. Chesterton. He is a Catholic priest who possesses a keen understanding of human nature and a knack for solving crimes. Very much relying on his intuition, understanding of human psychology, and moral insights rather than just physical evidence.

The character first appeared in a series of short stories that were published between 1910 and 1936. Adapted frequently, the titular detective is currently in its tenth series on BBC One.

Father Brown is known for his unassuming appearance and humble demeanour, often being underestimated by those around him due to his clerical role. However, he consistently proves himself to be a brilliant detective with a deep understanding of the human soul, which allows him to uncover the true motivations behind crimes. The stories often explore themes of morality, redemption, and the complexities of human behaviour. The play captures the essence of Chesterton’s work, while offering a fresh narrative that is great fun. Stalwart of stage and screen, John Lyons embodies the beloved priest perfectly.

The mystery takes place on Christmas Eve in the grand home of the widowed Mrs Adams (Susan Earnshaw) and her well-heeled, daughter Ruby Adams (Lara Lemon). Alongside Father Brown, invited guests for the festivities are: their neighbour, and Ruby’s love interest, John Crook (David Osmond), her Godfather Sir Leopold Fischer (Jeremy Lloyd-Thomas), and James Blount (the forementioned John Goodrum) as Mrs Adam’s brother-in-law from Canada. As you’d expect there are uninvited guests, as well as the family’s rather cheeky maid, Maisie (Juliette Strobel) mixed up in the whodunit.

The guest of honour, or so he would assume, is the cantankerous, industrialist Sir Leopold, who comes bearing a highly coveted gift. His temperament has him clashing with most and the various actors’ light-hearted sparring and jostling is a joy to watch. The first act includes unexpected and seasonally appropriate scenes which the company clearly delight in performing. This is a much lighter production than those that I’ve seen in the past and shows the Tabs team always find new ways to surprise you.

A single, simple set is used effectively for the play which runs in two acts. Dressing and minor changes are affected by the theatre lights and Christmas frills. The excellent costumes are true to the 1930s period and characters.

Long before I had the privilege of reviewing with ‘What’s Good to Do’, my wife and I always see at least one of the Classic Thrillers each year and part of the joy is watching familiar faces tread the boards in different guises. With incredible versatility, both on and off stage, this company never fail to pull you into another mystery and deliver thoroughly convincing performances, and the cast chemistry is always superb.

Start Christmas early with Father Brown and challenge yourself to solve the mystery before the curtain falls. A perfect and entertaining homage which is suitable for the whole family!

Rating: 4/5

Tickets are fantastic value, starting at £16.50.
On Stage from 8-12 August 2023, for more information or to book tickets visit https://trch.co.uk/whats-on/father-brown-crime-at-xmas/ or call the box office on 0115 989 5555
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall, Theatre Square, Nottingham, NG1 5ND

The splendorous, Victorian Theatre Royal, and neighbouring Royal Concert Hall, stand within a clean, well-lit, and popular area of the city centre which has benefited from extensive regeneration and considered transport links. The Theatre is surrounded by a range of bars, restaurants, and entertainment options for a wonderful night out in the bustling city. Arriving by car, routes to the theatre were well signposted and nearby parking was plentiful.
The main foyer is elegant and spacious, with a recently renovated bar. You are sure of a warm greeting and a great atmosphere. The bars/concession stands are well manned, stocked and of standard prices for theatres. I have sat in both stall and dress circle seats; both are comfortable and provide excellent views of the stage.