WHAT Charles Dickens intended for his last novel, The Mystery of Edwin Drood, has been much debated. The disappearance (and possible murder) of the title character was never revealed as Dickens died before finishing the story. Edwin's uncle John Jasper, who has somewhat unnatural designs on his nephew's innocent bride-to-be, Rosa Budd, is prime suspect but, as in any good whodunit, it's never the most obvious person is it?

Thus anyone putting on a production of the story faces a challenge of what to do about the ending.

But Rupert Holmes' musical version deftly manoeuvres this obstacle with some rather clever audience participation.

When it comes to the moment which Dickens died (where the company hilariously cuts off mid-song) the audience is given the chance to vote on who killed Edwin Drood and the appropriate ending is then re-enacted. We voted the Reverend Crisparkle (who was in love with Rosa's late mother) our villain.

Thrilling interaction isn't the only highlight, either. There's impressive set design (a refreshing indulgence as The Warehouse often favours the minimal) and a cast comprising some gloriously- talented vocalists and musicians.

The Warehouse Theatre Company put on a fun, panto-esque (in homage to dames, Edwin is played by a woman) production and, best of all, you get to solve The Mystery of Edwin Drood.

Warehouse Theatre, Croydon until February 24. Call 020 8680 4060.