In 1886, Robert Lewis Stevenson shocked Victorian England with
his wild gruesome novella,
”
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,
”
about a gentle and good doctor who became involved with the
morality of man. The story stretched the idea that there is good
and evil to different degrees in all of us.
In 1886, Robert Lewis Stevenson shocked Victorian England with his wild gruesome novella, “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” about a gentle and good doctor who became involved with the morality of man. The story stretched the idea that there is good and evil to different degrees in all of us.
Playwright Jeffery Hatcher puts a new spin on this old tale with a “Three Faces of Eve” multiple personality ride into the tortured mental and physical dilemma of Dr. Jekyll.
This production has four Mr. Hydes – count ’em, four – each displaying a different evil tendency that jars the imagination. Director David Ira Goldstein holds a tight rein on his cast with sharp timing and swiftly moving scenes. Stevenson’s original plot is transposed to eliminate Jekyll’s love interest and concentrates on the battle with his experimental alter egos.
The pristine cast of six brings in strong performances, each actor except one playing multiple roles including the main character.
R. Hamilton Wright is the haunted driven Dr. Jekyll who brings the torments of a man looking for explanations for unthinkable behaviors. His delicate underplaying of the role brings an understanding to the character that has been lost in the original story.
One of Hyde’s evil creations is a woman, well-played as a man by Carrie Paff. Stephen D’Ambrose, Ken Ruta, and Mike Anderson all add the fine thread that brings these figures together.
Kent Dorsey’s set is innovative with furniture rising from the center stage that seemingly floats into place without breaking the timing or the tone of the moment. The red door that seems to loom up in most scenes is like a symbol of crossing the line of stability when you pass through it.
Dawn Chiang’s well-designed lighting replaces makeup in some areas and is effective and Anna Oliver’s period costumes are beautifully authentic.
“Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” is a well-done, gory offering that will keep the audience alert and interested. It’s theater well directed with a fine cast.
