“It is one thing to mortify curiosity, another to conquer it.” ― Robert Louis Stevenson, The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.

Our Grand Young Blogger, Beth Easton attended the opening night of The Touring Consortium’s production of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, starring Phil Daniels from Eastenders.

The infamous tale of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde was released upon Blackpool’s Grand Theatre audience on Tuesday night. This curious tale of one man’s dark descent into two left the audience absorbed in the story, laughing at the wit and gasping at the terror. Based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, this adaptation is a gripping display of a doctor’s intrigue spiralling out of control in a furtive experiment.

This production was adapted by David Edgar and directed by Kate Saxon who introduce new characters and ideas into this classic story. The set is fitting for the era and the plot with dark walls and foggy, candlelit streets. This gloomy setting along with the eerie singing and music lure us into this story and reflect the gothic themes of the play. The clever sound effects of cracking bones combined with the realistic acting on stage particularly thrilled the audience and in moments, it felt, and sounded very real.

Starring Phil Daniels as both respectable Doctor Henry Jekyll and forbidding Scotsman Mr Edward Hyde, he splits his personality into two, releasing the cruel and brutal Edward Hyde on those unfortunate enough to cross his path. Daniels’ portrayal of as the respectable doctor is convincing and shrewd. His transformation into the less respectable, more wicked alter ego, is clear and although his rough Scottish accent sometimes encourages a laugh, it is soon shunted by Hyde’s brutal actions and suddenly the atmosphere is sinister again.

Sam Cox as Poole, Jekyll’s butler, is the best example of witty humour, which is naturally woven into his character and lines. The addition of female characters into this version gives it depth. Grace Hogg-Robinson plays the likeable, curious character of Annie the maid who, although a victim of male violence, is strong willed and the first person to suspect that Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde are in fact the same person. Jekyll’s sister Kathrine, played by Polly Frame, is also a refreshing addition to the play giving Jekyll’s character a family and a back-story.

This production is showing at The Grand 27 – 31 March, with a bit of time left to catch the show I definitely recommend you go and see this well thought out production with its compelling cast. It will transport into the gothic tale of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde while you just hope you can make it out with your soul intact.

Tickets available by clicking here or call our Box Office on 01253 290190.