A few years ago, on a Christmas road trip, I was re-introduced to the magic of the Sherlock Holmes stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. I hadn’t read or thought much about the detective since writing a book report about “The Hound of the Baskervilles” sometime in middle school. I’m always fascinated by the life some characters and stories have long after their first appearance. Sherlock Holmes first appeared 136 years ago, yet he—and his devoted companion Dr. Watson—continue to be reimagined repeatedly. I eternally thank Kirven Douthit-Boyd and Erin Prange for allowing me to create a new story about the duo in collaboration with their brilliant artists.

This production is a culmination of all my training and previous work. Each of my teachers and mentors are reflected in this production, particularly Michele Self, Karen Peterson Kriete, Kim Abel, Ahn Sung-Su. Stephen King, Sanford Meisner, Ohad Naharin, Tarantino, Fosse, Sondheim, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Michael Jackson, Anne Bogart, Tina Landau, Michael Nava, Lev A.C. Rosen, William Shakespeare, Agatha Christie, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, I’m jealous of what you’ve made, I admire you, and I’m grateful for the magic you’ve given us.

My wonderful supportive parents and sister have always encouraged and supported my dreams no matter what time of day. Chadi El-Khoury is my partner, best friend, editor, and fiercely loyal support system.

The artists you see on stage tonight, as well as the ones behind the scenes, found personal ways to connect to this dream and, in doing so, clarified, challenged, and improved it; this production could not be what it is with another group of people.

Finally, thank you; more than half of the performance happens on your side of the footlights. We wouldn’t have a purpose without you.

- Joshua L. Peugh