Stoneham’s Theatre’s dark and brooding DR. JEKYLL
& MR. HYDE (playing through Nov.10th) is based on the classic
story by Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson. Legends of men turning into
monsters (usually during a full moon) pepper Scottish folk tales but Stevenson
lifted the story into the “modern age” by suggesting that good and evil exists
in everyone.
This particular adaptation by Jeffrey Hatcher
features one actor as Dr. Jekyll (a somber, tortured Benjamin Evett) and the
rest of the company taking turns as Hyde. The rapid changes (from business man
or butler to monster) hammer home the lesson than given the right (or rather,
wrong) circumstances, any of us might choose criminality over civility…not to
mention that the theatrical effect of multiple Hydes, in director Caitlin
Lowans’ stylish production, is certainly powerful. But what is sacrificed to
the multiplicity is the thrill of one actor transforming himself into the fiend
before our eyes.
The charismatic Alexander Platt (in several
roles) provides a hefty dose of suspense to the story. Will his seemingly
invincible Hyde triumph over the weak willed doctor? Will blackmail out? Platt
as Hyde possesses that dangerous magnetism which seems to draw women (in
particular, Esme Allen as his fearless lover) to the “bad boy” instead of the
good guy.
Cheryl McMahon plays several “pants” roles in
JEKYLL & HYDE but her vile, sadistic anatomy professor cries out for
comeuppance, he’s so nasty. Nick Sulfaro, too, impresses in several roles but
his nervous butler supplies much needed amusement. Dale Place is a force to be reckoned with
as Hyde but, as Jekyll’s thoughtful friend, Utterson, he gets to speculate about
man’s subconscious instincts and drive home the cautionary message of the piece.
