Jekyll & Hyde the Musical

Book and Lyrics by Leslie Bricusse

Music by Frank Wildhorn

Conceived for the stage by Steve Cuden and Frank Wildhorn

Directed by Michael Brown

Music Direction by Thomas Bardke

Produced by Matt Betz and Grand Prairie Art Council

Audience Rating: PG-13 (mature adult content, mild language, scenes of violence, murder, death)

Running Time: 2.5 hours plus a 20-minute intermission

Accessible Seating: Available

Hearing Devices Available: Not available

Sensory-friendly Showing: Not available

ASL Showing: Not available

Production Sound/Lighting Level: Mostly comfortable, but high-volume group numbers

Noises and Visuals to Prepare For: Full-volume singing, screaming, fog machine, stage fighting, violence, images of murder/death, mature adult content, lighting effects

Reviewed by Eddy Herring

I am always amazed and impressed by the amount of talent in DFW, and by the professional level of theatre being produced by so many area companies. Many non-Equity productions are every bit as good as, and sometimes better than, some of the professional touring shows that come through our area. Grand Prairie Arts Council’s production of Jekyll and Hyde The Musical, for me, exemplifies this and is a visual and audible treat that had me saying “WOW” throughout the performance.

Jekyll & Hyde explores the human dichotomy between good and evil and the forces that determine which ultimately prevails. In his dangerous quest to understand this duality, Dr. Henry Jekyll searches for a subject on which to conduct his experiments, only to realize that he must become the subject himself. The result is a dark and harrowing journey of obsession, murder, and ultimately irreversible consequences.

The Uptown Theatre is an amazing venue and the perfect setting for this show, directed and crafted by Michael Brown. He and his team created a breathtaking experience with a remarkable cast and stunning set that immerses you in a visual and audible feast. From the robust vocals under the music direction of Thomas Bardke created, to the stunning costumes by Erika Durham, and perfectly enhanced by Ryan Brazil’s sound design and lighting by Holli Price, the audience is enveloped in a sensory journey that embraces you from start to finish. Bravo to all the production team!

The ensemble is fully committed to the production, providing both strong support for the principal cast and the energy needed to propel the story forward. Their crisp choreography and powerful harmonies fill the space, while their ability to move seamlessly through multiple roles keeps the production dynamic and engaging. Their costumes are simply beautiful.

Brendan Reimer as Henry Jekyll/Edward Hyde is a force! His transformation from Jekyll to Hyde is deftly executed, with each character feeling completely distinct. His physicality, posture, hair, voice, and mannerisms feel as though you are watching two different people. Add to that his razor-sharp vocals, which never miss a mark, and you have a simply brilliant performance.

Katherine Spellmon beautifully portrays Emma Carew’s love and unwavering loyalty for Henry, delivering a performance filled with genuine emotion and breathtaking vocals. The other object of Jekyll’s attention, Shahdae Williams is exquisite as Lucy Harris. I was particularly moved by the rawness and heartbreak she brought to the role. Both performances are emotionally authentic and deeply compelling.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the wonderful performances of Bill Combs as Sir Danvers Carew, the future father-in-law of Jekyll, and Nathan Beltran as Gabriel Utterson, Henry’s best friend and confidant.

And then there is the perfectly matched “mean team” of Justin T. Combs (Simon Stride), Nathaniel Clark (Bishop of Basingstoke), Devon Watkins (Lord Savage), Ashley Pence (Lady Beaconsfield), Mark Winter (General Lord Glossop), and Robert Shores (Sir Archibald Proops). Each brings a unique personality to this delightfully despicable group, all of whom eventually meet their untimely, and perhaps deserved, demise. Well played by all!

Jekyll and Hyde the Musical is a stunning production and a must see. It is a wonderful reminder of just how much talent exists in the DFW theatre community. Although this venue is quite large, I would suggest that you get your tickets as soon as possible. The show runs only one more weekend, so don’t delay! You DO NOT want to miss this show.

Tickets are available at https://www.prekindle.com/events/grandprairieartscounciluptowntheater.

Congratulations on a brilliant production!

Go See the Show!

Eddy Herring