Review: JEKYLL & HYDE, Reading Rep Theatre

Photo credit: Harry Elletson

Jekyll & Hyde is the first production in Reading Rep’s tenth anniversary season, and sets a high bar for the work to follow.

This world premiere of Gary McNair’s stage adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale stars Olivier and Grammy award-nominated performer Audrey Brisson, who delivers a captivating performance throughout the 70-minute piece. Playing multiple roles, Brisson transitions artfully between the central character of Utterson, Mr Enfield, Dr Lanyon, Dr Jekyll and finally, just as the piece draws to a close- Mr Hyde. Each individual is portrayed through very carefully nuanced accents and mannerisms as well as simple prop and costume additions such as glasses or a hat.

McNair’s one-person adaptation is excellently written, accessible to both those who already know the tale well, and newcomers to the piece. There are some pleasantly surprising comic moments to lighten the otherwise gothic storyline, and these are well received by the audience. Michael Fentiman has directed Brisson expertly. The pair have worked together previously on the much-acclaimed Amelie, which earned Brisson her Olivier and Grammy nominations. It is clearly a creative partnership that achieves great results.

The playing space is small and square, and this increases the growing feeling of confinement and mounting stresses experienced by Mr Utterson as the play progresses. The only thing outside this space is the ominous door, behind which Mr Hyde is said to live, surrounded at points by a bright band of light, but otherwise in complete darkness. Emily Irish’s lighting design beautifully mirrors the gothic tones of the piece, and the sound design by Richard Hammarton ratchets up the tension in the room as we are led closer to the unveiling of Mr Hyde’s true identity. These production elements work well together, adding atmospheric layers to Stevenson’s chilling work.

It is heartening to see that Reading Rep have made the decision that all tickets for Jekyll and Hyde are priced under £20, as part of the theatre’s recently announced ticketing strategy to combat the cost-of-living crisis’ effect on accessibility to theatre. It is a move that may help many people access high quality theatre over the coming months as the industry faces challenging times during the current economic hardships. Bravo Reading Rep!

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Sarah Brown

Jekyll and Hyde runs at Reading Rep until 29 October, with tickets available here.