The Duality of Human Nature: A Fresh Take on Ashland’s *Jekyll & Hyde*
There’s something undeniably captivating about the story of Jekyll & Hyde. It’s not just the gothic suspense or the haunting melodies—though those certainly play a part. What makes this particular production by Ashland Productions so compelling is its ability to breathe new life into a tale we think we already know. Personally, I’ve always found the duality of human nature to be one of the most intriguing themes in literature, and this adaptation doesn’t just revisit it—it dissects it with a scalpel.
The Power of Transformation
One thing that immediately stands out is John Kurtz’s portrayal of Jekyll and Hyde. It’s easy to play these characters as polar opposites, but Kurtz does something far more interesting: he blurs the lines. His Jekyll isn’t just a saint, and his Hyde isn’t purely a monster. There’s a vulnerability in Hyde and a desperation in Jekyll that makes their struggle feel achingly human. What many people don’t realize is that this duality isn’t just about good and evil—it’s about the fragility of identity. Kurtz’s performance forces us to ask: how thin is the line between who we are and who we could become?
The Women Behind the Men
Robyn Mattison’s Emma and Rachel Williams’ Lucy are often overlooked in discussions of Jekyll & Hyde, but in my opinion, they’re the emotional anchors of this production. Emma’s unwavering devotion isn’t just a plot device—it’s a commentary on the sacrifices we make for love, even when it’s misguided. Lucy, on the other hand, is a character who defies stereotypes. Williams portrays her not as a victim but as a survivor, and her rendition of “Someone Like You” is a masterclass in vulnerability and strength. If you take a step back and think about it, these women represent the collateral damage of Jekyll’s ambition, and their stories add a layer of complexity that’s often missing in other adaptations.
The Victorian Backdrop: More Than Just Set Dressing
Ashland’s production doesn’t just recreate Victorian London—it immerses you in it. The lighting, costumes, and scenic design aren’t just visually stunning; they’re integral to the narrative. The stark contrast between the elegance of high society and the griminess of the streets mirrors Jekyll’s internal struggle. What this really suggests is that the setting isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character in its own right. The technical team deserves credit for creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
Music as a Mirror to the Soul
Frank Wildhorn’s score is, of course, a highlight. But what makes this particularly fascinating is how the music reflects the characters’ inner turmoil. “This Is the Moment” isn’t just a song—it’s a manifesto of ambition and hubris. The orchestra’s performance adds a layer of urgency that elevates the entire production. In my opinion, the music in Jekyll & Hyde isn’t just there to entertain; it’s a psychological tool that peels back the layers of the characters’ souls.
Why This Production Matters
What many people don’t realize is that Jekyll & Hyde isn’t just a story about a man and his alter ego—it’s a reflection of society’s obsession with control and the consequences of playing God. Ashland’s production doesn’t shy away from these themes. It embraces them, forcing us to confront our own capacity for darkness. From my perspective, this is what makes theater so powerful: it holds a mirror up to our collective psyche and asks us to look closely.
Final Thoughts
As the curtain falls, you’re left with more questions than answers. Is Jekyll a victim of his own ambition, or is he a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked curiosity? Personally, I think it’s both—and that’s what makes this production so brilliant. It doesn’t give you easy answers; it invites you to think, feel, and reflect. If you’re looking for an evening of theater that stays with you long after you leave the auditorium, Ashland’s Jekyll & Hyde is a must-see.
What this really suggests is that some stories never grow old—they just find new ways to haunt us. And in a world where the line between good and evil feels increasingly blurred, Jekyll & Hyde feels more relevant than ever.
