Sherlock Holmes Cracks a Christmas Case (Live on Stage!)

Gem Radio Theater brings a vintage-radio holiday mystery to Indian Lake.

An ominous package threatens Sherlock Holmes Christmas festivities is the focus for a lively performance at Indian Lake Theater.

If your holiday season calls for charm, nostalgia, and a few masterful deductions, clear your calendar for Sunday afternoon, December 14, 2025.

The Indian Lake Theater welcomes back Gem Radio Theater for a live, on-stage performance of the classic holiday radio play, Sherlock Holmes’ The Night Before Christmas—a merry mash-up of mystery, mischief, and Victorian holiday spirit.

This show is part of the theater’s special monthlong lineup of classic holiday features, but trust us: this one’s in a category all its own.

A holiday plot full of twists, tunes, and disguises

This year’s performance brings a wonderfully whimsical storyline set in 1886 at 221B Baker Street. It’s Christmas Eve, and Dr. Watson—dressed as Santa Claus—is preparing to deliver presents to Mrs. Hudson’s niece and nephew.

So far, so wholesome… until the door swings open and Holmes receives a surprise visit from his old friend Lord Widcombe.

Lord Widcombe is hosting an extravagant holiday party where he intends to gift his guests valuable jewels wrapped in £20 notes (as one does in London high society). But then comes a ransom note—written in a hand Sherlock knows all too well. Moriarity.
Because, of course, the criminal mastermind wouldn’t let Christmas pass without stirring up trouble.

Gem Radio presents a fresh take on the Night Before Christmas featuring Sherlock Holmes.

Holmes quickly springs into action, agreeing to attend the party disguised as Father Christmas to catch one of Moriarty’s henchmen, Lou the Lisper, in the act. But this is a holiday caper, so naturally things get comically complicated: the gift sacks get switched, Watson’s Santa suit sees more action than expected, the pair pay a visit to the mysterious Disciples of the Octagonal Square (no spoilers, but it’s as fun as it sounds), and Christmas carols echo through each escapade.

As you’d expect from any good Holmes tale—and any good holiday story—a happy ending awaits, wrapped with wit, warmth, and a wink.

What a live radio play feels like (and why you’ll love it).

Watching a live radio drama is like stepping into a time capsule. The cast performs right on stage, scripts in hand, creating the entire world of the play using nothing but their voices, timing, and an arsenal of creative sound effects.

It’s part theater, part audio magic show.

You’ll see every footstep, door creak, paper rustle, and jingle bell created live—sometimes with the most unconventional props. The Foley team becomes a character all their own, building an immersive Victorian London soundscape with clever hands and impeccable timing.

The result is charming, nostalgic, and irresistibly cozy.

Why you won’t want to miss this performance.

• It’s festive, funny, and family-friendly — ideal for anyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit.

• A unique holiday outing — especially if you're craving something more memorable than yet another cookie-swap.

• Nostalgia done right — for fans of classic entertainment, live performance, or a good Holmes mystery.

• Support local arts — Indian Lake Theater and Gem Radio Theater both shine when the community comes out.

This isn’t your average holiday show. It’s clever. It’s nostalgic. It’s delightfully chaotic in all the best Sherlock-meets-Christmas ways. And it’s a perfect excuse to grab a hot chocolate, head into Indian Lake, and let Gem Radio Theater whisk you away into a Victorian holiday mystery with a generous dose of heart.

As Holmes might say: The game’s afoot — and so is the holiday cheer.

About Gem Radio Theater.

A beloved creative force in the Central Adirondacks, Gem Radio Theater specializes in reviving classic radio plays with fresh comedic energy and local flair. Their annual holiday performances are a highlight of the season, drawing families, theater fans, and anyone who appreciates clever, handcrafted storytelling.

For more information and to purchase tickets online, visit Indian Lake Theater’s website.

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