Jekyll and Hyde

USER (08Jun06): Published 7 June 2006, Cambridge Evening News Don’t miss this passionate show Last night, the Festival Payers presented their version of Broadway musical, Jekyll and Hyde. And, as one of only a handful of amateur companies to have taken up the gauntlet of this challenging modern musical, they certainly didn’t waste the opportunity. Based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s story about a scientist (Dr Jekyll) whose explorations transform him into the murderous Mr Hyde, the musical is heavily reliant on finding a powerful male lead. Neal Upton as Jekyll powered through the musical with a passion and glee which was both impressive and suitably unnerving. As a whole, the show is very emotionally charged. Seldom is something said if it can be sung and almost every number bursts with emotive key changes and dramatic chord sequences. The company took charge of this momentum with professional ease. Aided by a stylish set, wonderfully atmospheric lighting and a terrific orchestra, they hit every high octane note in the score with confidence and precision and delivered a slick and energetic ensemble production. Antonia Grantham was excellent in her portrayal of Hyde’s sexual prey and equally, Amy Castledine as Jekyll’s fiancée produced an immaculate performance. Not a show to miss.