English
English
2 hr with interval
DURATION
CLOSING DATE
Until October 27, 2025
AGE LIMIT
Suitable for 8+ yrs
from
£18.75
AboutVenueTickets
Why watch A Shoddy Detective & The Art of Deception?
- Join bumbling detective Stuart Pidcock as he stumbles through a manor full of secrets in this laugh-out-loud whodunnit.
- Written by Shoddy Theatre, A Shoddy Detective and the Art of Deception in London has played to multiple sold-out runs at the Edinburgh Fringe, the Camden Fringe, and the New Normal Festival.
- Watch four brilliant actors transform into twelve eccentric characters in a whirlwind of chaos, mystery, and pure silliness.
- This two-day show is packed with sharp wit, quick costume changes, and plenty of surprises, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Created and performed by Shoddy Theatre’s ridiculously talented Mitch Donaldson, Becky Bertram, Neil Jennings, and Wesley Griffith, A Shoddy Detective and the Art of Deception West End play, throws a dozen eccentric characters into one slapstick, whodunnit mystery. Critics praise its “sharp wit and physical comedy in abundance,” while audiences can’t stop raving. Olivier Award–winner Louie Whitemore transforms the set into a comedic playground bursting with clever details. As the tour hits the West End for only two days, the Arts Theatre welcomes a night that’s unmistakably clever, endlessly entertaining, and delightfully shoddy.
Storyline
In a grand country manor, a priceless painting vanishes, and a detective with more enthusiasm than skill takes the case along with his unlikely ally. As suspects pile up and alibis fall apart, chaos reigns supreme. Can the truth ever be found, or will the culprit get away?
Show timings
Oct 13, 2025 at 7:30pm
Cast & crew
- Leading roles: Mitch Donaldson, Becky Bertram, Neil Jennings, Wesley Griffith
- Director: Mitch Donaldson
- Producer: Shoddy Theatre
- Associate director: Matthew Emeny
- Set & costume designer: Louie Whitemore
- Lighting designer & technical manager: Adam Jeffreys
- Composer & sound designer: Sam Baxter
Note: Producers cannot guarantee the appearance of any particular artist, which is always subject to illness and holidays.
Age & content guide
- This show is suitable for ages 8 and above.
- Content warning: Contains mild sexual references and innuendos
- Age suitability recommendations are just suggestions. So, trust your judgment when booking tickets for any show, and enjoy!
Arts Theatre Read more
Nestled in the heart of the West End, the Arts Theatre has been a creative hub since 1927. This independent theatre started as a members-only club to avoid censorship from the Lord Chamberlain's office. It soon grew into a vibrant space for boundary-pushing productions, offering an intimate theatre experience where every guest feels part of the action. Over the decades, it has hosted iconic works like the first English-language performance of Waiting for Godot and marked the West End debut of Ronnie Barker under Sir Peter Hall’s direction.
The Arts Theatre seating plan will help you find the best seats in the theater.
Getting there
- Address: Great Newport Street, London, WC2H 7JB.
- Tube: Nearest tube stations are Leicester Square and Covent Garden, both within a five-minute walk.
- Bus: 14, 19, 24, 38, 176 to Charing Cross Road (less than 5 minutes from the theatre).
Facilities & accessibility
Available facilities: restrooms, bar
Accessibility: step-free access, wheelchair accessible, guide dogs allowed, accessible restrooms
Additional information
- Security: To ensure your comfort and security, you might encounter a few security checks when you arrive at the venue.
- Dress code: Smart casual or semi-formal attire is the way to go.
- Outside food: While outside food isn't usually allowed, many theaters have cafes or restaurants nearby for you to check out before or after the show.
Tickets redemption
- You’ll get an instant email confirmation right after you book your tickets.
- Enjoy a hassle-free entrance to the venue by showing your mobile ticket and a valid photo ID – no printout necessary!
Cancellation & refunds
- Tickets cannot be refunded, amended, or rescheduled.
Frequently asked questions about A Shoddy Detective & The Art of Deception
How much do tickets for A Shoddy Detective and the Art Of Deception in London cost?
Ticket prices may vary depending on your chosen seats and show date.
What age is the play appropriate for?
The show is best suited for ages 8 and above.
Where is the show playing in London?
A Shoddy Detective and the Art Of Deception West End play will be performed at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC.
What is the play about?
A priceless painting disappears, a detective with questionable skills takes the case, and chaos unfolds in this laugh-out-loud whodunnit.
Is the A Shoddy Detective and the Art Of Deception worth seeing?
Absolutely! With rave reviews for its sharp wit, clever writing, and Olivier Award-winning design, it’s one of the most talked-about comedy plays in London this season.
How long does the show run for?
The runtime is approximately 2 hours, including an interval.