Jekyll and Hyde

The stage was very plain and bare; but the excellent lighting decorated it beautifully. There were good, crisp pools surrounding groups and individuals and the atmospheric downlighting was delightful.

Sound effects were plentiful and well-presented; and voices were amplified to keep up above the band.

These were ably led by MD Amy Bryce; and gave a very attractive, period sound throughout the performance.

There was a colourful and appropriate selection of costumes; and a good array of props that helped set the scenes and were used smoothly and effectively. Scene changes were carried out efficiently, but were sometimes too visible and that could be a distraction.

Wayne Byrom was outstanding as Jekyll/Hyde. He had a good, strong singing voice and believably portrayed a range of physicality for the two very different characters. The song Confrontation, however, was perhaps a bridge too far ? Difficult for anyone to realistically flick back and forth so quickly…and the wig wasn’t helping matters. Nevertheless, Wayne did a superb job.

Lucy (Sarah Crow) gave an excellent performance, exhibiting both innocence and breathtaking sensuality and a glorious singing voice.

Victoria O’Mahoney played Emma so well, with beautiful singing and a warm, affectionate characterisation.

Mark Hunter gave a fine, avuncular performance as John Utterson. His constant, calm dignity and loyalty was the perfect foil for Jekyll’s febrile nature.

Michael Crow gave good depth to the character of Sir Danvers. He carefully balanced his love of his daughter, Emma, with support for his protégé…all whilst managing the self-seeking Board of Governors.

Poole, played by Joan Cannell, was excellent…she was both subservient to Jekyll and exasperated by his strange behaviour.

At VERY short notice, Jonathan Paine took over the role of Simon Stride and performed it very creditably.

Iain Cannell, as the Bishop of Basingstoke, demonstrated a fine talent for depravity, whilst Paul Cox, as General Glossop, was every inch the military man. They and Anne Crow, Emma Sides and Marie Riordan all died bloodily and hilariously at the hands of Mr Hyde.

Donna Hunter and Wendy Tyler added spice to The Red Rat; and Charlie Irwin was a confident Newsboy, announcing horror after horror.

All of the singing was delightful… solos, duets and ensemble

Your director, James Fortune, is to be congratulated for creating such an impressive and enjoyable show with such a short schedule. You are ALL to be praised for your excellent work; and, especially, as you were having to cope with sickness.

Thank you for a delightful evening.

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