Latest Update
Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas runs at Alexandra Palace Theatre from 24 November 2026 to 17 January 2027, bringing a festive murder mystery to one of London’s most atmospheric Victorian theatres.
Overview
It is Christmas in Victorian London and performers in the West End are suddenly dying mid-scene. Scotland Yard initially rules out foul play, but Sherlock Holmes discovers a disturbing connection to The Twelve Days of Christmas.
With the body count rising, Holmes must race to solve the case while French hens, gold rings and even Mother Goose become part of the mystery. The production mixes Sherlockian detective work with festive comedy, mayhem and a distinctly theatrical Christmas setting.
2026 London Cast Announced
29 October update: Bo Poraj plays Sherlock Holmes alongside Marc Antolin as Dr Watson. The newly announced company also includes Edward Bourne (swing), Jonnie Broadbent (Arthur Stone), Annabel Brook (Ernie), Wayne Cater (Wotan), Margot Jardine (swing), Mia Jerome (Queen Victoria), Olivia-Faith Kamau (Estella Bottle), Mia Overfield (Clifford), Vivien Parry (Mrs Hudson), Emily Pithon (Professor Murray), John Ramm (Lestrade), John-Luke Roberts (Fafner) and Charlie Russell (Athena Faversham).
The show features songs by Tim Rice and Howard Goodall. Existing gallery photographs below show the previous cast, not the newly announced London company.
Creative Team
- Written by: Humphrey Ker and David Reed
- Directed by: Phillip Breen
- Production: Eleanor Lloyd Productions, Eilene Davidson Productions and Heartaches Ltd present the Birmingham Rep production
Production Images
Production photography: Pete Le May. Images feature the previous cast.
Dates, Venue & Tickets
- Venue: Alexandra Palace Theatre, Alexandra Palace, London N22 7AY
- Run: 24 November 2026–17 January 2027
- Tickets: booking now; check Alexandra Palace or the production’s official booking page for current prices and availability
Why See It?
This looks like a very Clarissa’s Corner sort of Christmas show: Victorian London, Sherlock Holmes, a rising body count and a festive song turned into a murder clue. The Alexandra Palace Theatre setting should suit the gothic, old-world atmosphere beautifully, while the comedy keeps it firmly in Christmas-entertainment territory rather than turning it into a straight thriller.
Accessibility
Current ticketing information lists a captioned performance on 3 January at 1pm and an audio-described performance on 12 January at 7.30pm. Access schedules can change, so confirm the latest details with the venue before booking.
Practical Information
Alexandra Palace Theatre is in north London. The production is currently listed as approximately 2 hours 30 minutes including an interval, with age guidance 10+. Allow extra travel time during the Christmas period and check the venue’s latest transport and access information before travelling.
FAQ
When is Sherlock Holmes and the 12 Days of Christmas on?
The production runs from 24 November 2026 to 17 January 2027 at Alexandra Palace Theatre.
Who wrote the show?
It is written by Humphrey Ker and David Reed and directed by Phillip Breen.
Is it a musical?
The production is presented as a festive murder mystery and comedy rather than a traditional Christmas musical.
Where is it playing?
Alexandra Palace Theatre in north London.
More Theatre on Clarissa’s Corner
Explore more festive productions, Christmas theatre and seasonal London ideas across Clarissa’s Corner.
Details checked against current Alexandra Palace, Birmingham Rep and official production information in September 2026.
