Behind The Scenes

One of Britain's finest analytical minds and best known fictional detectives is to be brought to life in a new radio production of Silver Blaze, a Sherlock Holmes mystery set in and around Tavistock.

The story from the Memoirs of Sherlock Holmes Volume One has been adapted by local writer Nigel Howells, who is a passionate fan of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's work.

Dartmoor and the surrounding area proved to be an inspirational location for Conan Doyle, who based his most famous work, The Hound of the Baskervilles, on real-life people and places - as well as folklore of the area.

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Without giving too much away, Silver Blaze tells the story of how the detective is brought in to solve the disappearance of the favourite for the Wessex Cup, and the tragic murder of the horse's trainer.

As you would expect, there are a host of potential suspects, police blunders and curious incidents which only Holmes can unravel to find the real culprit. 

BBC Radio Devon's production team will begin their hunt for Sherlock Holmes, his equally famous sidekick, Watson, and a cast of dubious characters with something to hide at open auditions in Tavistock. 

Assistant Editor, Sarah Solftley, explains the station is keen to work with actors from the community, especially as the story is set in the local area.

This is the fourth drama project the station has embarked upon in recent times and follows on from the success of the Twelve Days co production with Theatre Royal, Plymouth, and the BBC's own Sports Shorts new radio drama competition. 

BBC Radio Devon's deputy editor Sarah Solftley

Unlike previous productions, which have all been recorded in the station's Plymouth studios, some of Silver Blaze will be recorded on location.

Sarah admits: "This will present some challenges, but we're hopeful it will provide inspiration for the actors.

"It'll also give the audience a real sense of the unique soundscape of Dartmoor when they listen to the finished production." 

Silver Blaze will be broadcast on BBC Radio Devon on Easter Monday, and can be heard on this website through the "Listen Again" service for a month afterwards.

If you would like to audition for one of the seven male and two female roles come along to the rooms above the Ordulph Arms in Tavistock on Thursday the 9th of March at 7pm.

Or for more information email [email protected]