A Shoddy Detective transfers to the West End this October

After a hit Edinburgh Fringe run and a smash UK tour, Shoddy Theatre and The Production Garden bring A Shoddy Detective and The Art of Deception to the Arts Theatre in London for two special Monday performances on 13 and 27 October 2025.

The fast paced slapstick whodunnit follows a bumbling detective on the trail of a priceless stolen painting. When the case stalls he teams up with an old nemesis and tears through a manor of colourful suspects to crack the crime of the century. Expect sharp interrogations, rapid fire gags and a finale that keeps you guessing and giggling.

Creative producer and writer Mitch Donaldson calls the West End step a dream and pays tribute to the team who helped make it happen, saying he cannot wait to share the show with London audiences.

Early notices have been enthusiastic, with North West End UK dubbing it “a comedic gem” and “a must see for fans of farce,” while other outlets praise a crowd pleasing mystery that delivers laughs to the end.

The cast features Neil Jennings as Detective Pidcock, Wesley Griffith as Dusty Wills, Mitch Donaldson as Lord Raeburn and Becky Bartram as Lady Raeburn, with Alexandra Ricou as understudy and assistant stage manager. The creative team includes set and costume designer Louie Whitemore, lighting designer and production manager Adam Jefferys and sound designer Sam Baxter.

Shoddy Theatre was founded in 2018 and has grown through sell out runs in Camden Fringe, New Normal Festival, Edinburgh Fringe and a national tour. The company also produced the Offie award winning The Olive Boy in 2024.

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Show info

Arts Theatre, London

Dates 13 and 27 October 2025

Running time 120 minutes including interval

Age guidance eight plus

Tickets and details via the Arts Theatre website