Jekyll & Hyde – The Musical, shines spotlight on humanity’s moral compass

With George Le Gresley

By Casandra Turnbull

Playful Fox Productions cast members have spent the last few weeks walking the line of good versus evil and exploring the depths of one’s moral compass to gain a true understanding of the dual struggle people are challenged with every day.

It’s been an encompassing experience for many of the cast members but it’s all in the name of good theatre as the local production company prepares to present Jekyll and Hyde, The Musical

“While every musical provides its own set of unique challenges, Jekyll and Hyde’s greatest challenge has also been one of our greatest joys,” says Malakai Fox, owner of Playful Fox Productions. He’s also directing this upcoming performance and starring as Dr. Henry Jekyll/Edward Hyde.

“The cast and crew have so much fun creating this dark atmosphere that sometimes we get so excited, we end up spending large amounts of time on one scene,” he explains, adding, “that same energy is what makes rehearsals so enjoyable – that collaborative spirit ”

Based on the classic tale by Robert Louis Stevenson, the musical centers around Dr. Henry Jekyll as he attempts to separate the two forces at work in us all: good and evil As Jekyll's research is met with obstacle after obstacle by the hypocritical band of the Board of Governors, Jekyll turns to his only option for an experiment... himself.

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Thus, he becomes Edward Hyde and wreaks havoc and destruction on all those around him

Playful Fox's production of this tale celebrates its dark tones and its overarching message, the facade that all humans wear

The performers, without question, have raised this show to a whole different level. Fox walks the fine line of Jekyll and Hyde, putting on what is sure to be a tour de force performance. He is matched by both Jennifer Mountain as Lucy Harris and Marissa Wilson-Fox as Emma Carew. The rest of the cast fills out this story wonderfully, delivering such driving vocals and characters that will fully transport audiences into the heart of this horror story!

Malakai and his wife, Marissa Wilson-Fox, who will also be the musical director, selected this particular musical because it fits into the spooky spirit of the Halloween season, which is just around the corner.

“A long-time hidden gem from Broadway, Frank Wildhorn’s Jekyll and Hyde is a favourite of many musical theatre performers, both for its gothic setting and its soaring music,” said Wilson-Fox

Joining Malakai and Marissa on stage will be Jennifer Mountain as Lucy Harris, Scott Mountain as John Utterson and John Bell (yes, Paris councillor John Bell!) as Sr. Danvers Carew.

“This is a step out from the Disney, feel good musicals that Playful Fox have presented over the last years and, whilst musically a wonderful treat, the dark story line challenges both cast and audience. It asks questions of us all,” explains Bell

Rob Curwain, who portrays Lord Savage, admits this will be a performance you don’t want to miss.

“The cast has really taken to the challenge, a lot of them letting their darker sides rise to the surface. It really speaks to the show’s theme of duality - to have the idea of murder and chaos pitted against love and virtue,” Curwain shares, noting it’s darker than any show he’s performed in before and that’s what makes it an exciting challenge.

Despite its darkness and morally rooted undertones, this performance does have an uplifting and inspiring resolution, says Gus Adam who portrays The Bishop of Basingstoke He hopes the audience sees that even if every moment is a struggle you can persevere. And with a full range of acting chops on the main stage, Adam said he also hopes the show sparks the fire for people to get involved in local theatre.

This gothic style musical hits the #forParisCentre stage September 29th , 30th and October 1st . If you can’t make the Paris performance, catch the show in Fergus at the Fergus Grand Theatre October 6, 7, 8th .

Showtimes and tickets are available online now. Please note: This musical contains artistic depictions of violence, murder, and sexuality Recommended for ages 13 and older.