Jekyll & Hyde

What a wonderful show! The Bohemians may be an amateur company but this production with it's first class soloists could, in my opinion, rival some professional productions. There was intrigue as the open stage revealed the inmates at St. Judes hospital shouting out and the scene was immediately set for this dark show. Jonathan Collins made an instant impact and was thoroughly convincing in the role of Dr. Jekyll/Mr Hyde handling the conflicting characters with aplomb. Vocally he was quite outstanding. "This is the Moment" was superb and had the audience on their feet in appreciation. Claire MacLean too was excellent as the love struck Emma. "Once Upon A Dream" and her duet with Jekyll ,"I Must Go On" were enthralling. Rachael Flynn, seductive and believable in her feelings for Jekyll, also had a fabulous voice shown off at it's best in her solos "Someone Like You" and "A New Life" both numbers sung with such emotion. Charlie Munro with his powerful singing voice gave a strong and convincing portayal of John Utterson. The supporting principals, Graham Addison (Lord Danvers) was a sympathetic father while Lorraine Keenan (Nellie) brought some light relief to this sombre piece. Indeed all of the supporting characters are worthy of praise. Rarely have I seen an amateur production where the standard of singing throughout was so high and with a cast with no weak links. It was obvious too that the chorus of poor, rich and whores was totally involved in the plot, moving and singing with purpose and conviction. The set of various levels was used very effectively while scene changes with cast members moving various items of furniture were smooth and tidy. The score for this musical is wonderful and the orchestra did it proud. This thrilling and exciting production was almost flawless and absolutely deserved the applause and ovation it received throughout the evening.

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