Ms. Holmes and Ms. Watson – Apt. 2B
London, Spring 2021
COVID. Sorry to bring it up.
The UK saw some of the highest numbers of COVID deaths in the world and underwent multiple lockdowns (CNN). During the spring of 2021, the vaccines were rolling out, lockdown regulations were easing up (but still relatively strict), and clubs and bars were beginning to open again (BBC).
London, December 2020
In the play, our dear Dr. Joan Watson is a bit traumatized by her experience as a doctor in the United States during the pandemic. Burnout among medical practitioners rose dramatically during the pandemic. A post-pandemic survey revealed that, if given the choice to go back in time, only 57% of American doctors said they would choose to practice medicine again (Berg).
There are a few moments in the play where characters allude to the financial struggles of theatres due to the pandemic. One study reported that ticket revenue dropped 88% for theatres in 2021 (Wallace).
Law & Order: London Edition
The UK has different laws and policies about marijuana, guns, and police procedures than the United States. Here's what you need to know:
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Marijuana : As of August 2024, recreational use of marijuana is illegal in the UK. In 2019, the use of medical marijuana was legalized (CMS Law).
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PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act of 1984): Police have stricter guidelines about interrogating suspects than they do in the United States. Some policies are that they cannot use deception to get a confession and that all interviews with suspects must be recorded (GOV.UK).