Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift – Sheffield Lyceum

A Murderous Midsomer maze of twists, turns and dead ends!

Originally penned by Caroline Graham in 1987, the first ever TV episode of Midsomer Murders – The Killings at Badger’s Drift aired in March of 1997 and became the highest rated single drama of the year.  With the firm TV favourite John Nettles as Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby and Daniel Casey as his sidekick Sergeant Troy – the dead body of Emily Simpson, the elderly ex school teacher; gentle and orchid-loving; is discovered in her idyllic cottage in the seemly sleepy village of Badger’s Drift in the county of Midsomer. The thrilling and charming series became a firm TV favourite with its interjection of wit juxtaposing its dark undercurrents and shocking twists.  This first ever episode now takes to the stage and does so with the same recipe of humour and nostalgic charm. Sheffield Theatre audiences came out in large numbers to witness this new spectacle, and a spectacle it is!

Cleverly re written and directed by Guy Unsworth and with the iconic theme tune ringing in our ears; in my opinion; it is the set design and costume design by David Woodhead that earns the acclaim as ‘exceptional’. With a layered cut out depiction of the village taking centre stage and constantly showing the pin point location of the present action in the village, the forestage staging effortlessly transforms to every interior and exterior needed in this complex multi character murder investigation, from office interiors to multiple elaborate homes – both in and out – and the woods. The scene changes are swift and minimal, but we are completely immersed in the quintessential location. Aided with a great lighting design by Matt Hawkins and an ambient sound design by Ella Wahlstrom and compositions by Max Pappenheim – Let the murderous maze begin, with all its twists, turns and dead ends!  

This production as a wonderfully swift flow of pace and great use of humour ranging from farce and slapstick to innuendo and sarcasm. Watch out of the crazy quick change interview scene. But there are one or two moments that seem a little misplaced –one being a dancing gnome!? A dream sequence or a mixed- up mind in search of answers? This is a definite Royston Vasey moment.

‘The TV series’ Sergeant Troy, Daniel Casey now takes on the role of Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby and does so with a calm assurance. There is a well-balanced relationship with James Bradwell as rookie, eager to please Detective Sergeant Gavin Troy.  The remaining seven strong cast pastiche a plethora of eccentric characters were in the performer’s gender/age is not an issue. Julie Legrand is perfect as Lucy Bellringer amongst other characters. Rupert Sadler is alarming in a ‘Hitchcockesque’ way as Dennis Rainbird. Nathalie Bird puts in a strong performance in all her roles. Chandrika Chevli has more than one surprise up her sleeve(s). John Dougall is wonderfully ‘Hinge and Bracket’ as Iris Rainbird. The cast is complete by Chris Agha who can add Resident Director to his list of roles and Rhian Crowley- McLean who completes the line-up. An eclectically strong cast with boundless energy and skill fully expand this clever script.

How would I sum up this delightful new theatrical experience? Well firstly, it’s consistently humorous and at times feels like to have flashes that equate from The League of Gentleman (unnervingly bizarre). However throughout, it remains complex and dark with – as one Belgian detective said – a challenge for ‘the little grey matter’. Does it work on stage? Yes, it certainly works, it is a fabulously entertaining evening of murder and mayhem. Perfect for arduous fans of the TV series and also those with no previous visits to the county of Midsomer. Unlike, other recent adaptations for stage of Murder Mysteries this one is unique and finds a novel way to stand out. 

The production is presently touring the UK and is at the Sheffield Lyceum until Saturday 29^th November. However, if it tours anywhere in Midsomer County I would advise you to stay away, it isn’t quite as sleepy as first seems!  (350+ murders and counting!).

Reviewer: Tracey Bell

Reviewed: 25th November 2025

North West End UK Rating: