Jekyll and Hyde

Darlington Operatic Society has never been afraid of moving with the times and this dark gothic thriller is a classic up to date winner. The wow factor and drama builds through the evening leaving us on the edge of our seats, and yes I was leaning forward engrossed in the performance. This production was voted for by the Society and they gave their heart and souls to the production.

Joanne Hand (Director) and Steven Hood (Musical Director) I applaud you both, a dynamic team. You brought the 19th century London to life in every way, the snooty rich and the guttersnipes’, the musical number “Facade” opened the show and showed us what a thrilling night we were to experience. Joanne this production needed passion and guts, you gave it that. Steven your wonderful orchestra added mystery and tension. I came away exhausted but exhilarated and I’m sure you all did.

The main character is obviously Dr Jekyll / Mr Hyde, such a meaty, dramatic part, Julian Cound threw himself into this literally, and he gave us a side we have never seen before, remembering that this time last year he was playing the ever sunny Caractacus Potts, this year the demanding Jekyll and Hyde building tension through his transformation, singing “This is the moment”, he was the wow factor of the show.

Trying to guide his friend right to the end was John Utterson played by Christopher McCann, some lovely moments between the two, a nice portrayal of true friendship.

Dr Jekyll is engaged to Emma Carew played by Beth Hopper, Beth has the voice of an angel, sweet and true, her solo “once upon a dream” where she declares her love was superb. She played the role with gentleness, beautifully done.

Emma’s Father, Sir Danvers Carew, (Jason Slater) gave us a fine upstanding portrayal of a Gentleman of society and a loving father. As the Chairman of the Board that will not back Dr Jekyll he is torn and abstains from voting. The boardroom scene gave us a look at the elite of the city who all gave strong competent performances.

Jekyll out with his friend visits the Red Rat Club for his bachelor party. The riotous song “Bring on the men” shows us the other side of the city and we meet Lucy Harris (Rhianne Walker). Oh yes girl you oozed with lust and gave the men just what they wanted, a great dance number from the ladies as well giving lift and fun as contrast to the darker side of the show. This meeting leads to a friendship that lasts through the show. The song sung in Act two by Lucy and Emma, “In his eyes” about their relationship with Jekyl, powerful and moving.

Through the scenes Jekyll is progressing with his experiments but at the very moment of his wedding the Hyde character takes over, he feels powerless and begs his friend Utterson to kill him. He can’t do that to a friend and so Jekyll runs into his swordstick and kills himself, he is finally free.

The roll of Dr Jekyll is shared with Luke Oldfield, and Lucy shared with Jess Harrison I’m assured they are brilliant.

DOS you add more ticks to your success each year, Lighting gave atmosphere to the show, Costumes and wigs added magic, clever use of one set with different levels, and such passion from all cast. As my husband said, we could have been in the West End, Job done.

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