Jekyll & Hyde The Musical

Jekyll & Hyde The Musical is such a big show to undertake because the ensemble need to be as strong , if not stronger than the Principals. The set designed by Gareth Cox was intricate, I particularly liked the attention to detail in Dr.Jekyll`s study and in his laboratory. I did, however, find the lecturn in the office with the ”Board of Governors” slightly out of sync with the rest of the furniture. I liked the stairs going to The Dregs, they were well utilised throughout the whole of the show. Lucy`s bedroom was well represented in such a small space – well done.

 There are some huge stand out musical  numbers, “Facade” is the first ensemble number that we see and I will admit I was excited for it - I am a huge fan of the score of Jekyll & Hyde. Everyone worked hard and we saw the various characters emerging, the ensemble in this show deserve to be specially applauded for their delivery of “Murder, Murder” – this whole production number both in choreography and vocals was fantastic. Simon Fitzpatrick as Choreographer kept the moves very big, simple and visual which was perfect for this number, I also loved his tableau endings. Musical Director Jeremy Sleith had obviously done some intense singing coaching as it`s delivery was sharp not shrill, panicked not crazed. It is regrettable that tracks had to be used for this production, but I do understand the pricing issues of using an orchestra. Bravo! To both Simon and Jeremy.

Unfortunately the sound by Sparks Theatre Management was very muffled on the evening that I attended, at times it sounded like mics hadn`t been turned on . The lighting by Daniel Oliver-Grant was a little bit slow throughout, but the lighting plot was sympathetic to the scenes . Costumes by The Boyz , Erin Heywood Brenda Starkey and Whitworth AODS looked great and very fitting to the era.

Nigel Slater as Poole stole his scenes with some superb timing and facial expressions. I was equally drawn to the super stage presence from Jon Clay and the great facial expressions from Elly Palmer. Ian Ball as Sir Danvers Carew gave a fabulously solid, believable performance. He used his stage space well, made a good connection with the audience and seemed to show genuine affection towards his daughter Emma played by Francesca Groves. Francesca showed some lovely vocals and her empathy towards Henry played by Tom Williams was evident in their scenes. Tom had a difficult job of playing two very different, very complex characters, unfortunately for me I did not find him believable as Mr .Hyde. His vocals were pleasant, diction was clear and the audience loved him. Kayleigh Ann Strong played Lucy, I say she played, but she didn`t – she became Lucy right to the very ends of her fingertips, her vocals were fantastic - a true powerhouse, massive stage presence, great, strong facial expressions, clear diction .The fear and passion on her face during “ Dangerous Game”, I shall certainly be looking out for her in other productions within the North West.  

Thank you for inviting me to your production, both myself and my guest enjoyed it and I look forward to seeing you all again soon. 

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