Craig Hall returns to direct the world premiere of Sherlock Holmes and the Mystery of the Human Heart, a new play from reclusive playwright Reginald Candy. Holmes’s most challenging case yet will keep even seasoned mystery fans guessing until the final curtain. This thrilling cat-and-mouse game begins previews tomorrow at the Festival Theatre.

When disembodied human hearts start turning up across London, legendary Baker Street detective Sherlock Holmes (Damien Atkins) suspects a case finally worthy of his attention. But even with the support of longtime allies, Dr. Watson (Ric Reid) and Mrs. Hudson (Claire Jullien), Holmes finds his investigation thwarted at every turn. Worse, the deaths seem to form part of a grisly message taunting the renowned detective. A deadly battle of wits ensues as Holmes races to unmask the enigmatic culprit and stop the murders before it’s too late.

Rounding out the cast of Sherlock Holmes and the Mystery of the Human Heart are Deborah Castrilli, Rais Clarke-Mendes, Nehassaiu deGannes, Sochi Fried, Michael Man, Johnathan Sousa, Sanjay Talwar, Sophia Walker and Kelly Wong.

The Shaw’s production of Sherlock Holmes and the Mystery of the Human Heart features atmospheric set design by Ken MacKenzie, period-inspired costume design by Hanne Loosen, immersive lighting design by Bonnie Beecher and haunting original music and sound design by John Gzowski. The production team includes stage manager Leigh McClymont and assistant stage managers Becca Jorgensen and Sang-Sang Lee.

On stage at the Festival Theatre (10 Queen’s Parade) from July 24 to October 13, Sherlock Holmes and the Mystery of the Human Heart is recommended for audience members 12+/Grade 7+. Running time is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including two intermissions.

Sherlock Holmes and the Mystery of the Human Heart is generously sponsored by Hummel Properties Inc. The Festival Theatre’s season is supported by the Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund (OCAF).

The Shaw Festival’s 2024 season runs through to December 22, with a playbill featuring Lerner and Loewe’s My Fair Lady, One Man, Two Guvnors, Sherlock Holmes and the Mystery of the Human Heart, Agatha Christie’s Witness for the Prosecution, The Secret Garden, The Orphan of Chao, Candida, The House That Will Not Stand, Snow in Midsummer and A Christmas Carol. The Spiegeltent’s season features The Shaw Variety Show, The Roll of Shaw, Kabarett, Cotton Club, Coffee Concerts, Footlights, Speakeasies, What’s In Your Songbook and Gospel Choir.

For tickets visit www.shawfest.com.