JEKYLL & Hyde: The Musical is becoming a popular production in and around York, perhaps reflecting the ruggedness of this timeless play, and now it’s time for The York Orchard Musical Theatre Company to step up to the mark, with their first ever production.
Based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s original novella, Strange Case Of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde, Frank Wildhorn and Leslie Bricusse's musical adaptation is arguably focussed around one well-known song, This Is The Moment and one leading role. Get these right and it’s usually job well done. It’s refreshing, however, to see this young, exuberant theatre company breaking free from these constraints and bringing out the best of this wonderful story.
The Gothic thriller explores the inner-struggle between good and evil that exists in human nature and combines this with an aspiring Dr. Jekyll, a man of science yearning to overcome these opposing forces.
Director and designer Justine Hughes does a magnificent job of production and staging, with the set effortlessly transforming from steaming laboratory, to dingy gentlemen’s club. Ben Papworth does an equally stellar job with the musical production, fluidly orchestrating his band to shift with the building tension and sweeping climaxes.
Henry Jekyll and Edward Hyde is played by a young Rob Fisher, who despite his obvious nervousness and stiffness to start, quickly warms to the role and grabs it mightily with both hands. His transformation from a timid, alluring Jekyll, to a possessed, deranged Hyde is frightening, but he thrives in this rather tricky role.
Beth Stevens and Rob Fisher in Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical
Beth Stevens relishes the role of Lucy Harris, bringing out her feisty but vulnerable nature, showcasing what is probably the most natural and confident performance. Alongside Rachel Dennison, their portrayal of the gentlemen’s club scene is fun and spirited, bringing a much needed burst of energy to proceedings.
Jekyll’s death, the supposed climax of the play, is somewhat overshadowed by its preceding scenes, with Fisher’s booming vocals during Angstand Confrontation, providing two highlights.
Despite a few awkward and timid moments, the show is a huge success with the sheer energy and enthusiasm from this debutant theatre company shining through for all to see.
Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical, The York Orchard Musical Theatre Company, Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, until Saturday. Box office: ticketsource.co.uk
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