Arthur Conan Doyle’s fabled detective, Sherlock Holmes, has been one of literature’s most beloved figures since his debut in the late 19th century. The supreme sleuth has been the subject of four novels, 56 short stories, and countless adaptations, including the acclaimed BBC television series Sherlock. D.M. Belke’s play, The Reluctant Resurrection of Sherlock Holmes (written in 1992), offers a fresh and imaginative take on the legendary detective. The Montgomery Playhouse is currently staging this comedic mystery at Gaithersburg Arts Barn, and their production (expertly directed by Avery Morstan) is frighteningly fabulous! Featuring a gifted cast and magical special effects, the company brilliantly brings this spooky story to life.
The Reluctant Resurrection of Sherlock Holmes takes place two years after Arthur Conan Doyle killed off his famous detective. The author is summoned to a country manor owned by the Westhaven family. There, he investigates a string of seemingly supernatural occurrences, and he is eager to prove that the paranormal is real. Doyle arrives with an open mind, only to find himself haunted by the ghost of Sherlock Holmes himself. As strange events unfold and dark secrets are revealed, Doyle must confront the specter of his own creation and unravel the mystery lurking beneath the manor’s elegant facade.
John Van Eck (Arthur Conan Doyle) and Vince Terlep (Sherlock Holmes) each deliver splendid performances. Van Eck portrays the accomplished author with a polished demeanor, conveying both passion for his work and fascination with the supernatural. He additionally gives a charming and relatable persona to this legendary writer, most notably when he humorously attunes himself to the eerie energy that lingers in the house. Terlep personifies Sherlock Holmes with a looming and imposing presence while also interjecting witty commentary. This duo’s interactions are tremendously entertaining, especially when Van Eck colorfully expresses frustration with Holmes’ haunting antics.
The Westhavens are excellently played by Ron Ward (Desmond Westhaven), Vanessa Markowitz (Abigail Westhaven), and Beatrice Ieronimo (Rose Westhaven). Ward embodies Desmond, a retired veteran actor, with an entertainer’s flair and panache. He sharply conveys perfectionism, vividly communicating disdain for the unexpected. Markowitz’s characterization of Desmond’s wife, Abigail, is marked by her passionate storytelling, particularly when relaying ghost stories and memories from her past. She also communicates an unwavering commitment to orderliness in the household, complementing Abigail’s sophistication and authority. As Desmond and Abigail’s daughter, Rose, Ieronimo confidently illustrates both the naïve and mature aspects of this character. She brings both youthful innocence and educated worldliness to the role, depicting childlike wonder while also stating beliefs with conviction.
An array of projections and special effects (designed by Brian Markowitz) enhanced the foreboding atmosphere, displaying animated thunderstorms and ghostly silhouettes of otherworldly figures. Avery Morstan’s set design adorned the stage with Victorian artwork and furnishings, immersing the audience in the mansion’s historic surroundings. Costume designer Jennifer Georgia outfitted the performers in ornate period fashions, utilizing striking black-and-white patterns to visually heighten the mysterious tone.
While The Reluctant Resurrection of Sherlock Holmes revolves around a centuries-old literary icon, the play explores several themes that resonate in 2026. The plot centers on Arthur Conan Doyle losing control of the work that made him famous, and many contemporary creators face similar challenges. With intellectual property battles and AI-generated content becoming commonplace, questions about creative control, ownership, and manipulation are constantly in the public eye. Also central to the story is Doyle’s frustration at being forever associated with Sherlock Holmes. This predicament mirrors the pressures that many public figures continue to grapple with when audiences primarily identify them with a particular persona or accomplishment. Lastly, the conflict between truth and belief is brought to light when Doyle’s enthrallment with spiritualism contrasts with Holmes’s faith in logic and evidence. With misinformation, conspiracy theories, and competing narratives increasingly prevalent in modern society, the tension between facts and fiction remains as relevant today as it was in Doyle’s era.
A unique blend of thriller, comedy, and ghost story, The Reluctant Resurrection of Sherlock Holmes is a multifaceted theatrical experience that is worth an excursion to the beautiful Gaithersburg Arts Barn. Merging historical fiction with classic mystery elements, the production is a fitting tribute to the enduring popularity of Sherlock Holmes. With its blend of mystery and the macabre, this delightful play provides the perfect excuse to escape the summer heat and begin anticipating the arrival of Halloween in just a few short months.
Running Time: Approximately two hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.
The Reluctant Resurrection of Sherlock Holmes plays through June 28, 2026 (Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.), presented by the Gaithersburg Arts Barn in partnership with The Montgomery Playhouse at the Arts Barn, 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg, MD. Purchase tickets ($16–$23) online, by calling 301-258-6394, or in person at the Arts Barn box office.
Note: Recommended for ages 15+
The Reluctant Resurrection of Sherlock Holmes
By D.M. Belke
CAST
Arthur Conan Doyle: John Van Eck
Sherlock Holmes: Vince Terlep
Desmond Westhaven: Ron Ward
Abigail Westhaven: Vanessa Markowitz
Rose Westhaven: Beatrice Ieronimo
Tomas Markoveitch: Charlie Hall
Scrimshaw/Moriarty: Adriaan O’hern
Understudies: Andrew Harasty, Ella Clark
PRODUCTION CREW
Director: Avery Morstan
Producer: Cassandra Redding
Stage Manager: Aaron Skolnik
Assistant Stage Manager: Ella Clark
Set Design: Avery Morstan
Sound Design: Aaron Skolnik
Lighting Design: Andrew Harasty
Costume Design: Jennifer Georgia
Set Dressing/Properties:McKenna Kelly
Intimacy Coordinator: Helen Aberger
Fight Choreography: Andrew Harasty
Hair/Makeup: Avery Morstan
Projections/Special Effects: Brian Markowitz
Projection Hang: Steve Deming
