Review By Kendra Hanna, Front Row Reviewers
West Valley Arts’ performance of Jekyll and Hyde is a masterful representation of the dichotomy of good and evil. When Doctor Henry Jekyll (Rhett Richins) fails to find support for his revolutionary experiments from his colleagues, he takes matters into his own hands, using himself as the subject of his testing. As he ventures too far into the realm of the impossible, he finds himself living in the shadow of his darker self – a terrible and violent man known as Mr. Hyde. With Shelby Ferrin as Director and David Martin as Music Director, this show is not to be missed.
Richins’ dual depiction of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is, in a word, sublime. His transformation between each distinct character is stark, leaving no room for confusion. His performance of “This Is the Moment” is especially memorable, inspiring the audience with the same enthusiasm for his experiments that he himself possesses. Jessica Knowles Andrus’ powerful portrayal of Lucy Harris matches his passion beat for beat. Her performance of the song “A New Life” is as beautiful as it is devastating. Kersee Whitney’s determined and independent portrayal of Emma Carew is likewise magnificent. The depth of feeling she brings to her character heightens the tragedy of the piece as a whole while reminding the audience exactly what every character has to lose. Her soaring vocals alone are enough to recommend the show by themselves.
Act II begins with a magnificent ensemble piece, “Murder, Murder“, as Mr. Hyde stalks the streets of London, killing those who previously stood in his way, a sense of dread begins to build that doesn’t let up until the inevitable conclusion. It should be noted that these murderous scenes are rather intense, and the play is not advised for those under the age of 13. That said, the onstage combat is both convincing and jarring, pulling one directly into the dangerous streets of London.
No commentary on this play would be complete without a nod to the costume designer Kelsey Nichols. While all of the costumes were lovely, the ensemble’s forces of evil costumes are incredible. Every time they slink out of the darkness and onto the stage, they create a stifling sense of inevitability.
With expertly crafted choreography by Ben Roeling, the ensemble truly brings this show to life. Of particular note is the choreography to the song “Bring on the Men”, which gives one the feeling that they are in a house of ill-repute. Combined with a spindly and asymmetrical set designed by Morgan Golightly, the space leaves the characters without anywhere to hide. This becomes especially relevant for poor Lucy after she decides to leave London. Lighting designer Renee Fowler creates a startling image by plunging the space into darkness before suddenly lighting the face of Mr. Hyde leering over the bedside table, a moment which sets hearts racing in fear.
Whether you are a fan of horror, a regular theater-goer, or a Halloween enthusiast, West Valley Performing Arts’ production of Jekyll and Hyde is an experience for everyone.
West Valley Arts presents Jekyll and Hyde by Leslie Bricusse, music by Frank Wildhorn, orchestrations by Kim Scharnberg and arrangements by Jason Howland.
Jekyll & Hyde — West Valley Arts, 3333 S, Decker Lake Dr, West Valley City, UT 84119z
October 11- November 2, 2024 Wednesday-Saturday 7:30pm, Saturday 3:00pm (except November 2)
Adults $25, Youth (under 12) $18
Contact: 801-965-5140, boxoffice@wvcarts.org
Photography by Brighton Nicole Sloan and Lauri Baird
Jekyll and Hyde promo reel
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