Written by Stephen Canny & John Nicholson, this cheeky British import is directed by Derek Ritschel and features a cast of three actors playing 17 different roles.
May 26, 2025 – Port Dover, ON | The game is afoot at Lighthouse Festival as The Hound of the Baskervilles takes the stage as the second production of the 2025 summer season. Running from June 18 to July 5 in Port Dover and July 9 to 20 in Port Colborne, this riotous adaptation of the Sir Arthur Conan Doyle classic promises non-stop laughs, jaw-dropping transformations, and a spine-tingling mystery with a decidedly ridiculous twist.
Written by Steven Canny and John Nicholson, this brilliantly funny take on one of literature’s most iconic detective stories trades fog for farce as three actors take on over a dozen roles. Directed by Lighthouse Festival’s Director in Residence, Derek Ritschel, this production stars a powerhouse comedic trio: Jonathan Ellul, Sweeney Macarthur, and Andrew Scanlon.
“Theatre should entertain, surprise, and leave your cheeks sore from smiling, and this show delivers all three,” says director Derek Ritschel. “We’ve taken one of the greatest mysteries ever written and turned it into a night of organized chaos, breathless quick changes, and endless hilarity. These actors are fearless, and the audience is in for a howling good time.”
“Steve and I had a great time writing this adaptation – nearly 20 years ago now. It’s also been a pleasure to come back to the script almost every year since to update it, in response to new productions,” says playwright John Nicholson. “Since its West End run in London, the show has travelled all over the world, and we’re thrilled that it has now landed at Lighthouse Festival. We know you’re in for a good time!”
Jonathan Ellul, taking on the role of the infamous sidekick Watson, says “What I love about my character is that I get to be the ‘innocent’ in the story because Watson is always trying to figure out the next piece of the puzzle, but also, there is a lot of stepping in and out of character which, in our version, contrasts with everything about the ‘character I’m playing’.”
“I think anyone who is looking for a real escape is going to love this show; anyone looking for the opportunity to slip away into a world of mystery and intrigue and rollicking laughs, says Andrew Scanlon. “I think fans of Sherlock Holmes will love this adaptation, which plays very cleverly with all the creepy twists and turns of the classic story. But if you’ve never seen a Holmes mystery in your life, this is the absolute perfect comedic entry point!”
From lightning-fast costume changes to laugh-out-loud dialogue and a few howls in the night, The Hound of the Baskervilles is the perfect blend of classic storytelling and madcap comedy. Whether you’re a die-hard Holmes fan or simply love a good laugh, this production is sure to be a highlight of your summer.
Tickets are available now at www.lighthousetheatre.com or by calling 1-888-779-7703.
About Lighthouse Festival
Lighthouse Festival is a charitable organization devoted to the development and production of new and existing Canadian plays. Lighthouse Festival strives to be artistically excellent, support and encourage local and regional artists, and be a source of enjoyment and pride in local communities while promoting local tourism. Located in two beautiful towns on Lake Erie, our theatres operate on a central policy of hospitality, inclusivity, accessibility, and affordability for all.
Media Contact
For media inquiries, cast interviews and further information, please contact:
Don Kearney-Bourque
Marketing & Communications Manager
Lighthouse Festival Theatre Corporation
[email protected]
Direct: (226) 290-0070
Cell: (289) 541-7410
www.lighthousetheatre.com
