Clever Retelling of an Old Tale ~ Jekyll and Hyde in the Round ~ Cabaret Festival 2024

[Cabaret Music Comedy  - New Zealand / Australian Premiere] Jekyll & Hyde by A Slightly Isolated Dog Space Theatre Fri 7 Jun 2024 When all the members of the Australian cricket team are in danger of falling victim to his horribly violent sprees, something must be done to stop Mr Hyde. Mind you, he began as you or I, enjoying a wild night out occasionally. But when this turns to a habit he can’t control, anyone of the present company could fall foul of his malicious mind. The classic tale by R L Stevenson is given a modern makeover with plenty of polished pizzaz from these talented performers. The zany ensemble from New Zealand deliver tight, slick improvisation with total involvement from the audience in the round, that is, all around them and in-between them. The hilarious, laugh-out-loud frivolity is mixed with superb songs, both vibrant and varied, utilising all of their fine voices. The clever, carefully crafted script appears completely spontaneous as they dance on the edge throughout the show. Mr Hyde’s rampages increase in intensity, despite his attempts to resist the ultimate power that comes with freedom from restraint. At one stage he benefits from some personal development and gets into a new relationship, only to fall back once again. We have to begin to ask, is the mounting death.toll really worth the growth of one individual? Their professional flair prevails in a delightful yet challenging redefinition of this old story. I lost count of the roles played willingly by audience members. They also take turns at being Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, along with all of the cast. They remind us, in a safe, fun way, that there’s a reason why we’re so reluctant to delve deeper into the twilight zone inside ourselves; it’s scary and threatening. Dr Jekyll finally takes Mr Hyde out with him, when confronted by the angry mob of societal norms. We however are faced with the daily dilemma of keeping our impulses in check. Most of us have long ago learned how to keep these well out of sight, suppressing them beyond recall. This show aims to move the needle on the dial between control and chaos, to allow ourselves to accept and perhaps embrace the black dog normally kept in its kennel. Rather than deny or destroy parts of our nature, we could potentially incorporate them and learn to love them. At a time when extremism again tugs at our attention, self-awareness may be the first step to saving the world. Rather than the polarity of duality, perhaps synthesis begins at home. 4.5 Stars David Cronin Jekyll & Hyde continues at The Space Theatre until June 9th. Click HERE to purchase tickets.