Dr Jeckyll and Mr Hyde

A gothic novel with this title was written by Robert Louis Stevenson and first published in 1886. The impact of the work was such that the title is still used today to refer to people with an unpredictable dual nature – they are usually very pleasant but sometimes extremely evil.

In 1991 the playwright, David Edgar, produced a stage version of this novel which involved separate actors performing the parts of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. However, in 1996 Edgar revised his play so that he had the same actor playing both roles, thus making it clear that this was one man with two very different sides to his personality – one good, one bad. It was this change which, in my opinion, enabled Matt Barnes to superbly demonstrate his acting skills in portraying the viciousness and wickedness that were so much a part of Dr Jekyll, as well as the politeness and kindness of which he was also capable.  

The suddenness with which Sir Danvers Carew (an elderly MP played by Murray Webb) was set upon and murdered by Dr Jekyll was evidence of his quick and fierce temper. More explicit was the violence and vicious treatment extended to the parlour maid Annie Loder (brilliantly coped with by Natalie Thompson) who demonstrated an immense amount of professional competence in dealing with Jekyll’s violence and cruelty towards her. Poole, the butler (played by Andy Velleli) showed great tact in coping with Jekyll’s outbursts. The principals, as well as those in supporting roles, were appropriately attired in Victorian dress, with action taking place on a well-designed and cleverly illuminated set. Congratulations to all who were involved in this detailed production which was sensitively directed by Judith Hall and Megan Rogers.     

In the novel, Jekyll’s adoption of grossly violent behaviour was attributed to swallowing a concoction he had mixed in his laboratory; today we find similar excuses being put forward by those who resort to using a variety of substances to explain away unacceptable actions.  

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