The news of a West End debut comes after its hit run at the Edinburgh Fringe this summer and a UK tour. First established in 2018 and spearheaded by Mitch Donaldson, Shoddy Theatre's Shoddy Detective is a fast-paced, slapstick whodunit.
Shoddy Detective production image. Photo by Rah Petherbridge.
Described as a "comedic gem", it follows a bumbling detective as he is called to solve the mystery of a priceless stolen painting. However, when he can't solve it himself, he enlists the help of an old nemesis.
Creative Producer Mitch Donaldson says: “To say I’m excited to be taking A Shoddy Detective to the Arts Theatre in the West End would be an understatement. It feels a bit surreal to say that out loud, because this has always been the dream. From the very beginning, I felt the show had real potential but of course, having a dream and actually getting here are two very different things.
What’s made this possible isn’t just the idea, it’s the people. I’ve been so lucky to work with an amazing team of performers, creatives, producers who have brought their own talent and energy to make this show what it is. Without them, it simply wouldn’t be happening.
So while this is a huge milestone for Shoddy Theatre, it’s really a celebration of what we’ve all built together. I couldn’t be more proud, or more grateful. And I can’t wait to share it with West End audiences.”
The cast for the West End transfer includes Neil Jennings as Detective Pidcock, Wesley Griffith as Dusty Wills, Mitch Donaldson as Lord Rawburn, Becky Bartram as Lady Raeburn and Alexandra Ricou as Understudy & ASM.
A Shoddy Detective and The Art of Deception will play at the Arts Theatre on 13 and 27 October.
