An Evening at the Theatre

Mikey, Mallorie and I worked concessions last night for The Little Theatre of Winston-Salem's production of Jekyll and Hyde. Selling "death by chocolate", "killer key lime pie" and "slasher strawberry" ice cream was a small price to pay for getting to see the musical for free. The show was, overall, amazing.

I was very impressed with the set, as it was the first time LTWS used mechanical tracking to change the scenes. Usually you only see these kinds of scene changes in professional theatre, and it's done using computer technology. But with the help of NCSA design and volunteer stagehands cranking the wenches, Jekyll's laboratory, Lucy's bedroom, etc. were moved into and out of place effortlessly. Add some red light, lots of fog and London backdrops - perfect.

The review was spot on regarding David Joy as Jekyll/Hyde. I've had the pleasure of working with him, and of listening to him perform in several other musicals. Still, I was unprepared by the range of his voice. I have never heard him sing like he did. He was absolutely outstanding!

Courtney Willis played Emma, Jekyll's fiancee. She had a gorgeous voice and I thoroughly enjoyed watching her onstage. Hyde's prostitute girlfriend, Lucy, was played by Lauren Stephenson. While Lauren was capable in her role, the "In His Eyes" duet by Lucy and Emma was owned by Courtney.

The ensemble cast was equally as talented. Michael Hoch stood out (as Spider), as did Miriam Davie and Michele Groneck. I was a bit disappointed in the choreography, which, at times was sloppily delivered. Once of my favorite numbers is "Murder, Murder" and it was a bit lackluster.

Bravos to everyone in the cast and the crew. The show was wonderful. If you haven't seen it yet, and you really should, you've only one weekend left. Go ahead and get your tickets, you don't want to miss out seeing David Joy in his finest role.