The next show to hit the stage at Capital City Productions is sure to get audiences in the Halloween mood.
A musical retelling loosely inspired by the original 1886 novella, "Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical" will open next week at the Wicker Lane theater. Described as an "epic struggle between good evil (that) comes to life on stage," the musical explores the story, familiar to most, of one man with two warring personalities: Dr. Henry Jekyll and his transformations into Mr. Hyde, a personification of Jekyll's inner demons.
Director Rob Crouse said the title role is obviously demanding, as the actor must essentially embody two different characters. It's a challenge that's been taken on successfully by Adam Shields, Crouse said, who some CCP fans may remember as the title role in the 2017 production of "Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street."
But really, Crouse said, the entire musical demands an outstanding cast, which he feels they've accomplished. Shields' wife, Kendra, is taking on the role of Emma Carew, Jekyll's fiance, and the personal connection between the two leads helps to add a nice element, Crouse said. Plus, the creativity from all of the lead actors has been really great to see and work with, he said.
"Watching them and collaborating with them has been exciting," Crouse said.
It's not the first time CCP has taken on the story of Jekyll and Hyde. Crouse said the group staged a production of the musical nearly 15 years ago, and he's excited to have it return to the local stage as it's one of his favorites.
"It's such a wonderful show," Crouse said, adding it has "some of the most gorgeous music on Broadway."
The music, described as pop rock, adds another challenging element for the cast, Crouse said, but vocal director Sue Logston has done a great job working with them.
The Gothic tale that personifies the fight between good and evil within one man will be the perfect night out to get into the spooky spirit, Crouse said.
"It's perfect for Halloween," he said.
"Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical" opens at 6:30 p.m. Oct. 8-10 and 15-17, with matinee performances at noon Oct. 10 and 17. Tickets are $38 and include a buffet dinner. Tickets can be purchased online at ccpjc.org/jekyll-hyde, by email at [email protected] or by calling or texting the box office line at 573-681-9612.