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The Observer, March 17, 2005 Jekyll & Hyde PreviewBy Rob KinseyWe’ve all heard the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: the mad scientist who experiments on himself and becomes a murderous monster. Like so many classic stories, it too has recently been made into a musical. Footlighters – Case’s undergraduate musical theatre group – has mounted a production of Jekyll & Hyde, by Leslie Bricusse (lyrics, dialogue) and Frank Wildhorn (music). The show opened last night in Thwing Ballroom, but I was able to catch a dress rehearsal on Tuesday night. At that point the scenery and lighting were still in construction, so I got an unprecedented look and listen at the raw talent of the cast. Coming from a wide range of backgrounds and trainings, the ensemble blended quite well in company numbers such as Façade and Murder, Murder, and gave powerful performances overall. Evan Fein plays the title character(s) – Dr. Henry Jekyll and Edward Hyde. Fein, a freshman at CIM, has an amazingly deep, rich voice that resonates throughout the ballroom. His voice is wonderful throughout the show, but was particularly showcased in This is the Moment, his solo as he decides to use himself for his experiment. Jeffrey Verespej plays John Utterson, Jekyll’s friend and lawyer who supports Jekyll’s research in Pursue the Truth. As the play progresses his concern grows, especially when Jekyll asks that his will be redrafted to make Hyde the sole beneficiary. Sadly, the role doesn’t let Verespej’s full talent shine, though he still does a great job. Jekyll’s fiancée Emma Carew is portrayed by Laura Crawford. Crawford’s airy yet full voice covers a wide range and compliments Fein’s voice beautifully. They share a moving love song, Take me as I Am, in the first act. Lucy Harris is an interesting character in the show. A prostitute by profession, she and Dr. Jekyll become friends at his makeshift bachelor party, but she later falls victim to Hyde’s violence. Tiffany Jensen looks and sounds fabulous in this role, which gives her the opportunity to wear some beautiful red and black costumes, Lucy’s trademark colors. The costumes were one of the few backstage elements that were finished when I saw the show. Bria DuPont did a marvelous job of costuming the show, especially the gowns that Lucy wears. Jekyll & Hyde is accompanied by a live orchestra, under the direction of Kevin Blume. Having seen shows performed to recorded accompaniment, it is always refreshing to see real musicians, especially musicians of the caliber present at this show. You can catch Jekyll & Hyde in the Ballroom on the second floor of Thwing. Performances are tonight and tomorrow at 8:00 p.m. and a special midnight performance on Saturday. Tickets are available at the door for $5.00. |