Written by Tim Marriott and Ben Coules, Watson: The Final Problem is based on Arthur Conan Doyle’s character John Watson, Sherlock Holmes’ chronicler, friend, and right-hand man. Ostensibly Watson is here to tell us the real story of how Holmes died, but also to defend Holmes’ reputation after some scandalous letters in the newspapers. Watson needs to set the record straight as any aficionados of these stories would expect.

At its essence this play is a character study of Watson and his attempts to move forward with his life now that a major figure in it has died. His wife dying soon after Holmes, and post traumatic stress stemming from his army service and injuries, find him struggling to find reasons to keep going.

Marriot gives Watson quiet dignity. He is proud of the success of his writing, his marriage, and loyalty to his great friend Holmes. When Holmes asks for his help knowing Moriarty is pursuing him Marriot and Coules make sure we know that Watson is more than a sidekick.

The setting is simple but successful, with period costume and furniture, but it is the soundscape which is most effective and really lifts this production. Footsteps on outside stairs, a violin refrain, and sounds of a raging waterfall instil atmosphere and really bring the storytelling to life.

Taking on the voices of three characters Tim Marriott is able to put a distinctive personality into each of them with a twitch here or a change in voice pitch but tonight I find the nod to melodrama a little too pronounced.

If you enjoy a bit of whodunnit storytelling and think it is about time John Watson’s character was fleshed out and given its due then this is the play for you. I would recommend getting to the Kryztoff at the Goodwood Theatre early to enjoy the atmosphere and live music entertainment at their very lovely outdoors bar.