A twisted tale of nerve-jangling horror, this adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic gothic thriller stars Phil Daniels as the extraordinary Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Read more …
During one of his audacious experiments trying to separate good from evil, the kind and gifted Dr Jekyll inadvertently unleashes an alternative personality of pure evil … the mysterious Mr Hyde.
As this sinister figure starts causing terror and havoc in foggy London, Jekyll must race to find a cure for his monstrous alter-ego before it takes over for good.
Phil Daniels works hard to make sense of his role, but he’s hobbled by the script’s attempt at psychologist realism – he doesn’t even get to give us a Grand Guignol transformation scene.
For a production that should have been captivating for many and varied reasons, it is surprising how much it has failed to engage.
Perhaps the scariest thing here is the amount of Arts Council England funding that has been squandered on such an all-round terrible presentation.
If things sag at times, flashes of dark humour remain, while Daniels gives a nuanced and at times arch performance as Jekyll and Hyde.
Measured and engaging.
Although there is strong acting brought by the key players in this production, a lacklustre script and awkward staging make this tale of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde one best left alone.
Theatre--Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde
Phil Daniels in Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde: First Look
Phil Daniels--Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
King's Theatre, Edinburgh from Tuesday April 10, 2018, until Saturday April 14, 2018. More info: http://www.edtheatres.com/kings
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