Summary
Forbes Masson tells the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in an incredible and thrilling one man production.
The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde has been adapted and admired by audiences since 1886. The Scottish author, Robert Louis Stevenson tells a story exploring human nature, friendship, and good and evil.
The 70-minute play opens with the sole performer, Forbes Masson, in centre stage. He breaks the fourth wall in a monologue towards the audience, which cryptically describes his character. He primarily plays the lawyer, Gabriel John Utterson, who is friends with almost everyone and the narrator of the original story.
The set is bare, but sets the scene perfectly. A rectangle frame emitting white light, another frame in the corner representing a door, and a platform with a chair. These simplistic set pieces tell the story and establish different settings, from Dr. Jekyll’s estate, to the foggy streets of London in autumn.
Masson performed the tale’s characters complexly and simply at the same time. For Dr. Jekyll’s butler, Poole, he used a subservient and polite voice, usually holding his hat in his hand to show his humble status. For Dr. Lanyon, the proud and argumentative acquaintance of Dr. Jekyll, he wore half-moon spectacles and a jacket while speaking strongly.
The play was thrilling and full of suspense – keeping you on the edge of your seat. The performance quickly established this theme by flashing stage lights then switching them off to keep up with Masson’s narration. This feature made the audience jump and their hearts race.
Masson’s delivery of every line held immense weight. During intense scenes, he spoke like a veteran adventurer describing his feats and exploits. When the mood was sombre or chilling, he sounded distant and wistful.
Jekyll and Hyde: Good and Evil
The kindness and prestige of Dr. Henry Jekyll shows us how we present ourselves to the world. We try to act as best we can around our peers and family.
But, Mr. Edward Hyde reminds us of our hidden desires and motives – things we may want to keep hidden and unspoken.
The duality of humanity manifests itself in this play through the curiosity of Dr. Jekyll, which brought him to creating Mr. Hyde.
Forbes Masson’s one man show delves deeply into this story and social commentary with fourth wall breaks, puns and concrete characterisation.
This production reminds us – we are all both Jekyll and Hyde in our own way.
Featured Image Credit: Mihaela Bodlovic