It takes a brave man to step out on stage and speak non-stop for nearly an hour.
James Hyland’s fresh retelling of Robert Louis Stevenson’s Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is an incredible show. Stood alone on an empty stage, Hyland has nowhere to hide when he becomes Hyde, or stays as Dr Jekyll.
He has total command of the stage, demanding the audience’s full attention. That is no mean feat given that he only has a simple wooden lectern as a prop.
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde was originally published at the very start of 1886, making it 140 years old, some two years ahead of Jack The Ripper’s murderous spree across London’s East End. Its impact still resonates today, with the twin nature of Mr Hyde and Dr Jekyll easily understood by audiences, whether they have read the book or not.
For those unaware, Dr Jekyll is a scientist based in London who devises a potion that will bring out his impulsive, reckless side: Mr Hyde. Unfortunately, that means death, destruction and mayhem.
Initially, the transformations are straightforward and controlled by the serum. But there comes a point when no potion is needed and it is Mr Hyde who dominates. The downward spiral is complete, and the only way out for Dr Jekyll is death itself.
Of course, there is more to it than that. Hyde is more than a nasty piece of work. Depraved, evil, a killer and without conscience, the alter ego reveals a very dark side to Dr Jekyll.
It is a story that explores the complexities and subtleties within each of us: the yin and yang, the masks we all wear.
Turning the tale into a one-man show is no easy task. The novella features several characters, including the people that Hyde terrorises, brutalises, or kills. Leaving all of this to our imaginations means the painter has to be exquisite in his colouring, measured in his daubs, and forensic in his detailing.
Hyland does just that.
With no make-up, costume changes, or silly voices, he effortlessly switches between the two men: a dashing and thoughtful Dr Jekyll, and the savage Mr Hyde. At all times you know who is who, and also see Mr Hyde trying to break through.
The only effects is a gradually dimming stage, as Jekyll’s descent into darkness continues. The final moments are played out in an eerie half-light, and are genuinely chilling as Hyland convinces us that he could really be possessed by Hyde and ready to go on another spree.
Hyland’s dynamism and carefully thought-through mannerisms mean you are on the edge of your seat throughout. He is unpredictable, keeping us hanging on his every word.
This is powerful, exciting, dangerous and wild theatre that demands your attention from its clever, compelling storytelling. An incredible piece of theatre from an incredible actor. At least, I hope he was acting.
Brother Wolf presents Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, adapted and performed by James Hyland, was presented by the Arlington Arts Centre on Friday, March 6.
For more on the show, and other Brother Wolf productions, log on to: https://www.brotherwolf.org.uk/theatre
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