Midsomer Murders Stage Adaptation Finds Its Inspector Barnaby
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A new stage adaptation of the hit ITV series Midsomer Murders has announced its lead cast, with Daniel Casey set to play Inspector Tom Barnaby. The production, based on Caroline Graham’s book and the popular television show, will embark on a tour later this year.
The stage show, titled Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift, is an adaptation of Graham’s book and will be directed by Guy Unsworth. The story follows Inspector Barnaby and his trusty sidekick, Sergeant Troy, as they investigate the murder of Emily Simpson in the picturesque village of Badger’s Drift. According to Whatsonstage, the whodunnit promises to uncover “a world of hidden passions, long-buried secrets and deadly rivalries.”
Graham has described the new stage show as “fast-paced and witty,” saying it “has everything an audience wants: bizarre murders and a beautiful setting.” Whatsonstage reports that the production will be produced by Nicholson Green Productions and Colin Ingram Ltd, with design by David Woodhead, lighting design by Matt Haskins, sound design by Ella Wahlström, and casting by Ginny Schiller.
Daniel Casey, who created the role of Sergeant Troy in the ITV show from 1997 to 2008, will now play the iconic role of Inspector Tom Barnaby in the world premiere stage show. In an interview with Whatsonstage, Casey said: “I never expected to revisit the world of Midsomer, with its weird and wonderful characters and all their dark, twisted secrets. So to be asked to play the iconic role of Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby in this new stage adaptation of The Killings at Badger’s Drift was a real surprise.”
He added: “Workshopping the play, you realise the characters have an inherent theatricality, which is perfect to bring to the stage.” Concluding, he said: “It has brought back some wonderful memories of such a happy time in my career playing Sargeant Troy and the fantastic time I had working with the amazing John Nettles and to be stepping into his shoes as Barnaby is both a little daunting and incredibly exciting.”
John Nettles, who originally played Inspector Barnaby in the ITV series, responded to Casey’s casting, saying: “How wonderful that the original tale of murder and intrigue in Midsomer will be solved by Daniel, in this new stage version of Badger’s Drift.” He added, “Daniel brought the young Troy to life so brilliantly in the original TV pilot of the book and I’m delighted that he gets to lead the investigation in this theatre adaption. He has a fabulous track record in his stage work – and had a marvellous DCI to teach him the detecting ropes, back in the day!”
The tour will open at Richmond Theatre on 24 October 2025, with further dates announced for Malvern, Chester, Eastbourne, and Sheffield in 2025, and Truro, Guildford, Brighton, Blackpool, Glasgow, Nottingham, Birmingham, Norwich, Derby, and Leicester in 2026. Further dates and casting are to be announced.
According to Whatsonstage, the production promises to bring the world of Midsomer Murders to life on stage, with a blend of murder, intrigue, and rural charm. With Daniel Casey at the helm as Inspector Barnaby, fans of the series are sure to be in for a treat.
The stage adaptation of Midsomer Murders: The Killings at Badger’s Drift is set to be a major theatrical event, with a talented cast and crew bringing the beloved characters to life on stage. As reported by Whatsonstage, the show is sure to delight fans of the series and newcomers alike, with its unique blend of mystery, suspense, and rural charm.
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