Jackie Schram, trained at the New School of Drama for New York, 
will play Sherlock Holmes in the Aquila Theatre production.
Courtesy of Aquila Theatre

When Sir Arthur Conan Doyle released the story of Sherlock Holmes in 1888, it would be the first of many approaches on his creation in years to come.

The beloved tales of London’s cunning detective will come to life again at Southeastern’s Columbia Theatre on Feb. 19 at 7:30 p.m. when Aquila Theatre travels to Hammond to perform “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.”

Columbia Theatre Executive Director Roy Blackwood stated the reason for choosing this specific play was because the audience members have been wanting a theatrical presentation that would be something they could think about.

“This seemed like a very good solution to that,” said Blackwood. “The crowd is going to love it. I know they are going to love it. I am pretty sure we are going to sell this one out; I think it will be a real crowd pleaser.”

Aquila’s version was chosen because of their high quality work. They work and perform for the most part in New York City but also go on tour around the country.

“They are excellent,” said Blackwood. “That is the reason they were chosen to tour.”

One thing that makes this version unique is the leading role. Sherlock Holmes, traditionally played by a man, will be performed by actress Jackie Schram. However, this will not be like the CBS television drama series “Elementary” where Doctor Watson’s character is female and played by Lucy Liu.

“The thing is, it is not Sherlock Holmes as a woman, it is just that the role is being played by an actor who is female,” said Blackwood.

Blackwood found the casting to be an interesting twist on the classical plot and looks forward to see how it works out.

“I really thought that was innovative and I liked it very much,” said Blackwood.

Other than the casting, “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes” would not be complete without its own set of plot twists and surprise endings. According to Blackwood, there is a twist that is going to happen, but to find out what it is, people will need to go to the performance.

“I am not going to let the cat out of the bag on that one,” said Blackwood.

Fans can rest easy that the legendary figure Holmes will give them a show as he tries to solve the trickiest cases in London with the help of his friend Dr. Watson and the woman Irene Adler.

“I would just encourage everyone to come and see this interpretation of ‘Sherlock Holmes’ because I really believe it is going to be fascinating,” said Blackwood. “I think they will enjoy it.”

For ticket information visit Columbiatheatre.org or call 985-543-4371.