Review: JEKYLL & HYDE at Onstage In Bedford

Church bells tolled as the sound of horse hooves on cobblestone echoed to set the stage at Onstage in Bedford this weekend for the opening of Jekyll & Hyde. A twist on the classic tale of one man's struggle to conquer his inner demons, this musical version of Robert Louis Stevenson's 1886 tale was adapted for the stage by Steve Cuden and Frank Wildhorn. Over the past century there have been innumerable adaptations of the original novella, including over 120 versions written for stage and film. The actors and production team of Onstage continued this time honored tradition this weekend to sold out audiences.

As the house lights dimmed, the audience was greeted by a London cityscape conceptualized by Alex Krus. On such a small stage, ingenuity is required to design a set that accommodates both cast and crew. Krus is always able to combat such restrictions, and in this production he chose to develop a set-in-set mechanism which could be opened and closed to change locations quickly. Smaller building profiles on casters were utilized stage right and left to further back each tableau.

Director Bill Sizemore and Music Director Shane Hurst expertly compiled a skilled vocal ensemble. Many of the actors had individual lines in the musical numbers and all were consistent, vocally strong, and clear. When the full ensemble was on stage, the sound perfectly filled the space and blended beautifully.

Actor Keith Warren had the immeasurable task of playing the dual lead of Dr. Henry Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Introduced initially as the intellectual Dr. Jekyll, the transformation to Mr. Hyde comes about when Jekyll performs a chemical experiment on himself to attempt to squelch his darker leanings. Warren undoubtedly has a strong vocal repertoire and commands his talent well in his numerous solos. Conversely, Warren's acting ability was questionable in its strength to carry the entire show on his back. Arguably he was more believable as the monstrous Mr. Hyde than the gentle, inquisitive Dr. Jekyll.

Warren's two leading ladies in Jekyll's fiance Emma, played by Taylor Quick, and Hyde's lover Lucy, played by Rebecca Paige, fared far better. Quick's lilting soprano was elegant and timid when called for. Her version of the waiflike ingénue with inner strength was endearing. Paige was the stunning star of the show, with her honest portrayal of a prostitute searching for affection and understanding in the dark alleys of London. Her dazzling vocal range evoked a sense of brokenness and longing that was completely enthralling. Honorable mention also goes to John Wenzel, who played Dr. Jekyll's one confidant in the character of John Utterson. Wenzel impressed vocally and proved to be a stalwart scene partner for Warren.

Generally, any musical version of Jekyll & Hyde is not typically staged as a large dance show. Choreographer Elise Lavallee opted for intricate blocking in the majority of the ensemble numbers. This tactic proved Strong in the opening company number of "Façade" but then became predictable and redundant for longer numbers like "Murder, Murder." An opportunity was truthfully missed in "Bring on the Men" where the reigns could have really been let loose. For such an obviously talented female collection, the choreography felt stifled and rudimentary.

In Saturday's performance, Onstage generously offered an interpreter service for their hearing impaired Audience members to enjoy the live show. Two sign language interpreters wonderfully translated the entire show. This addition was most welcomed and a trend that could be adapted by many local theaters to help engage audiences with disabilities.

Jekyll & Hyde continues its run through July 31st with Friday and Saturday shows at 8pm and Sunday matinees at 3pm. Tickets can be purchased at www.onstageinbedford.com. Onstage will continue its 31st season with Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf September 2-18th.

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