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Theatre Review: “Jekyll And Hyde” Holds A Mirror Up For Us To See The Darker Side Of Who We Can Become

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“Jekyll and Hyde” is the classic story of good and evil that we all have inside of us. The difference between us and Dr. Jekyll is that he lets his evil side – Mr. Hyde – come out to play and raise havoc in the streets of London.

Based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic thriller, “Jekyll and Hyde” is the gripping tale of a brilliant mind gone horrifically awry, set to a powerful pop-rock score by Frank Wildhorn with book and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse. In an attempt to cure his ailing father’s mental illness by separating “good” from “evil” in the human personality, talented physician Dr. Jekyll inadvertently creates an alternate personality of pure evil, dubbed Mr. Hyde, who wreaks murderous havoc on the city of London. As his fiancée Emma grows increasingly fearful for her betrothed, a prostitute, Lucy, finds herself dangerously involved with both the doctor and his alter ego. Struggling to control Hyde before he takes over for good, Jekyll must race to find a cure for the demon he has created in his own mind.

The show I attended was brought to life by some of the most talented performers in the Dallas Fort Worth mid-cities area. A deep tip of the hat to the technical staff who very obviously worked countless hours building, painting, sewing and bringing to life the streets of London at Onstage in Bedford. Both costume designer Hope Cox, and set designer Alex Krus, delivered absolutely brilliant creations! They, as much if not more so than the actors, are responsible for the success of the show. I have rarely attended a show where the costuming and set bring the show so vividly to life. The lighting of the show is also very unique and intriguing. “Floating” lanterns hanging above the set were a very interesting and spot on choice. Unfortunately, I found the style of lighting used to illuminate Dr. Jekyll’s laboratory to be very distracting.

It is vital that I mention at this point that I do not like the show…not because of anything the cast or director did or didn’t do, but I simply do not care much for the show who’s book and lyrics are by Leslie Bricusse and music by Frank Wilborn. At the reception after the show, I found there were very few on the fence about liking or disliking the show. You either love it or hate it. I don’t think there is enough passion built between Dr. Jekyll (Keith J. Warren) and his fiancée, Emma Carew (Taylor Quick). I never believed that they loved each other. I also found the music extremely unmemorable. It is very entertaining while being performed, but I couldn’t bring a single piece to mind as I drove home. Again, please let me reiterate that this has absolutely nothing to do with the performances of the cast at Onstage In Bedford, it is simply the way the show is written.

Of special note, I would like to congratulate Rebecca Paige for her stellar performance as Lucy Harris. It was an exceptional pleasure to see and especially hear Ms. Paige perform. With her level of talent, she is a name to keep an eye out for. In equal notability, Keith Warren demonstrates an amazing vocal range and powerful stage presence. My only faulting for him, as mentioned above, is that I never believed that he was in love with Emma.

And not to be forgotten is the beyond-amazing talents of the ensemble that sweeps the stage! WOW! This is by far the most amazing ensemble I have ever seen at Onstage in Bedford. The scene and musical number that takes place in the public house with the “working girls” was incredible, and there aren’t enough adjectives to describe my amazement of the London street scenes.

“Jekyll and Hyde” is running now through July 31st and is rated PG-13. Tickets can be bought online at www.onstageinbedford.com

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Thomas Richards
Thomas Richards
7 years ago

I have to agree with you. I completely dislike the show. The music is boring and unmemorable and the one time I saw it on stage I literally fell asleep during the second act. Regardless of the actors’ performances, I have no desire to see this show.