Midsomer Murders on stage review: A killer debut for the classic crime drama

❚ We may earn commission from links on this page. Our editorial is always independent (learn more).

28 years after it first launched on our TV screens, Midsomer Murders makes a thrilling stage debut.

Retaining all the heart of the beloved TV show, writer and director Guy Unsworth welcomes you to the county of Midsomer with a brand-new look at the episode and book that started it all: The Killings at Badger’s Drift.

The play takes place when well-loved spinster Emily Simpson is found dead and her friend Lucy Bellringer refuses to accept it was an accident. DCI Tom Barnaby and Sergeant Gavin Troy are called in to investigate, uncovering a world of hidden passions, long-buried secrets and deadly rivalries.

Leading the cast is Daniel Casey, the original DS Gavin Troy, who has been promoted to DCI Tom Barnaby. In an interview with Radiotimes.com, Casey admitted feeling a little “daunted” and “a little bit trepidatious” about the role, but he takes on the mantel left by John Nettles with ease.

Casey brings a quiet authority and warmth in the part that helps to ground the play. He’s the calming presence in the manicured wilderness of Midsomer, giving the audience a steady guide throughout.

Surrounding him is an assortment of eclectic characters, all expertly played by a handful of supporting cast; most of whom are playing two or three roles. It was quite a surprise to realise how few actors there were when the show ended.

Daniel Casey (Barnaby), James Bradwell (Troy) & Rupert Sadler (Dennis Rainbird) in The Killings at Badger's Drift, ©Manuel Harlan — Daniel Casey (Barnaby), James Bradwell (Troy) & Rupert Sadler (Dennis Rainbird) in The Killings at Badger's Drift. Manuel Harlan

Barnaby’s protégé, DS Troy, is now played by James Bradwell; delivering the same bad-driving and conclusion jumping fans of the show would be expecting. While the play is scattered with funny moments, Bradwell shows up for a lot of them; whether he’s the butt of the joke or simply being an over-eager detective, he offers up that touch of lightness the show is known for.

Casey told us in the run up that “if you’re a fan of the television series, you’re going to love the play”. As one of those said fans, it truly felt like I was watching an episode in action. The staging rolls between cottages to manors to murder scenes in seconds. It creates the feeling of escapism the TV show is known for. Accompanying this is a familiar score that brings tension and warmth throughout each scene, underscoring the mystery, the brutality and the quintessential English charm that its famous for.

More than anything, Midsomer Murders delivers exactly what theatre goers could hope for: a sharp, thoroughly entertaining whodunnit. It’s two hours of intrigue and charm that keeps you guessing until the very end. Just don’t be too confident you’ll solve it before DCI Barnaby.

Buy Midsomer Murders tickets at ATG Tickets