Calling all StageSiders, welcome back to another review here at StageSideUK. This time, we stepped into the suspiciously deadly village life of Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift. I am going to fly right out the gate and say this production exceeded every expectation.
Disclaimer: we were gifted a pair of free tickets in exchange for an honest review of the show.
Adapting a truly beloved television series for the stage is never an easy task. Audiences arrive with strong expectations, iconic characters already fixed in their minds and a very particular atmosphere they want preserved in the live theatre format. Add to that, star casting and logistically you have a very high set of standards you have to meet by a very demanding audience.
And against all odds, somehow, this production absolutely nails it. In fact, this may genuinely be one of the best screen-to-stage adaptations I have ever seen. There, I said it. Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift is a bloody good show!
From the very beginning, the show keeps the audience firmly on edge. The production is packed with twists, turns and shocking revelations, constantly pulling the rug from underneath you just as you think you’ve worked everything out. But what makes the evening particularly enjoyable is the balance it strikes between tension and humour. Amongst the murders and mystery, there are genuine laughs throughout, helping the show maintain the wonderfully eccentric charm that Midsomer Murders is known for.
Visually, the production is incredibly inventive. Dream sequences add a surreal edge to the storytelling, while moments of gore are handled with theatrical flair rather than cheap shock value. The illusions throughout the show are also brilliantly executed, creating moments where the audience audibly gasped in surprise. It’s a production that fully embraces theatricality, using the stage to enhance the story rather than simply replicate the television version.
The pacing deserves huge credit too. Murder mysteries can sometimes drag under the weight of anticipation, but this production keeps things moving beautifully. Every revelation lands with impact, every scene serves a purpose, and the suspense steadily builds towards a thoroughly satisfying and… Odd… conclusion.
What impressed me most, though, was how confidently the production stands on its own two feet. It respects the television source material while fully understanding the possibilities of live theatre. Rather than feeling like a staged episode, it feels like a theatrical event in its own right. It is rich in atmosphere, cleverly staged and deeply entertaining.
Accessibility
The production contains depictions of murder, moments of gore, sudden shocks and theatrical effects such as recorded music, sound effects (including a quiet gun shot) and some ambient music. Some scenes may feel intense for younger or more sensitive audience members, but I was never overwhelmed by the noise or visuals.
Value for Money
At around £39 per ticket, this production and its many tricks gives good value for money. Yes it is slightly high for a play, but for the quality, you are given bucketloads of thirlls!
Have your say!
Will you be visiting Midsomer on tour, or have you caught the show before? Let me know in the comments and let’s get a discussion going.
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Alyx Taylor-Scott