Sherlock Holmes: The Speckled Band

ABOUT THE DRAMA

Perhaps the most famous of all Sherlock Holmes adventures, "The Speckled Band" tells the story of a young bride-to-be whose sister was murdered. The case is especially remembered for showcasing Holmes's trademarked knack for reason and deduction. The listener is also treated to some touching insight into Dr. Watson's life outside of detective work, and a particular struggle he is currently facing.

"The Speckled Band," an adaptation of the short story by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, stars RJ Bayley (Holmes), A.W. Miller (Dr. Watson), Mike Carnes (Dr. Ormsby), Stephanie Nemeth-Parker (Helen Stoner), and Nicole Swanson (Julia). Direction, adaptation, and sound design by Craig Hart.

Musical score composed by Drew A. Forbes

LRT Media theme composed by John Campbell

REVIEWS

"Wish there were more episodes ... I love the voice actors!!!!" - Cozy_Rozy, Apple Podcast Listener

"Loved it, beginning to end. Can't wait for the next one. You will not be disappointed!" - Leonard, Audible Listener

"Listened to and read everything Arthur Conan Doyle over the years. This is quite good! Well done." - M, Audible Listener

ABOUT THE STORY

"The Speckled Band" is one of the most famous and frequently adapted Sherlock Holmes stories written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Here are some lesser-known facts and insights about the story:

1. Inspired by Real Events: Some believe that Conan Doyle might have been inspired by real-life events for "The Speckled Band." There were cases in the 19th century where individuals used snakes to commit crimes, though not exactly in the manner depicted in the story.
2. Doyle's Personal Favorite: In a list compiled by Conan Doyle for The Strand Magazine in 1927, he ranked "The Speckled Band" as his favorite Sherlock Holmes story.
3. A Play Adaptation: Conan Doyle adapted "The Speckled Band" into a play. It premiered in 1910, and Conan Doyle was actively involved in its production. The play made certain changes to the story, including giving Dr. Watson a more active role.
4. Original Publication: "The Speckled Band" was originally published in the February 1892 issue of The Strand Magazine, with illustrations by Sidney Paget, who significantly influenced the popular images of Holmes and Watson.
5. Criticism by Fellow Mystery Writers: While the story is a favorite among fans, it has been criticized by some fellow mystery writers. For instance, Agatha Christie mentions in her autobiography that she felt the solution (involving the snake) was implausible.
6. Holmes' Physical Prowess: The story is one of the few that gives readers a glimpse of Holmes' physical strength. He bends a steel poker in half with his bare hands to demonstrate his point.