Father Brown – "The Theatre of the Invisible"

by Mark Murton

Original Air Date: January 16, 2017

Directed by: Bob Tomson

Cat Out of the Bag Alert! This review contains spoilers for this episode!

Synopsis: Popular BBC radio quiz ‘Up to You’ comes to Kembleford with the programme makers staying at Mrs. Rudge’s (Lynda Baron) guest house, but when she is found dead, overcome by fumes in a mysterious fire, Father Brown suspects foul play. A second death confirms his suspicions.

Kitty Cameos: Parish secretary Mrs. McCarthy (Sorcha Cusack) and her ward “Bunty” Windemere (Emer Kenny) arrive at the auditions for the chance to appear as contestants on the radio show. Outside they encounter Mrs. Rudge who, as well as being there to audition, has also brought a basket of black kittens her cat has recently given birth to which she is hoping to sell. Bunty immediately reaches into the basket and plucks out one of the kittens.

Father Brown - The Theatre of the Invisible - black kitten being lifted from basket

She holds the kitten close as she and Mrs. McCarthy talk.

Father Brown - The Theatre of the Invisible - black kitten held by Bunty Emer Kenny with Mrs. Rudge Lynda Baron and Mrs. McCarthy Sorcha Cusack

Father Brown - The Theatre of the Invisible - black kitten held by Bunty Emer Kenny with Mrs. Rudge Lynda Baron and Mrs. McCarthy Sorcha Cusack animated gif

Father Brown - The Theatre of the Invisible - black kitten held by Bunty Emer Kenny with Mrs. McCarthy Sorcha Cusack

After the fire at Mrs. Rudge’s, two firemen emerge carrying the kittens to safety. The kittens aren’t seen again but in the denouement it turns out they inadvertently played a key part in proceedings.