Review by Markus Hamence – Performance date: Friday 8 November 2024, Stirling Community Theatre, Stirling, SA
A Captivating Production: Hills Musical Company’s Jekyll & Hyde
The Hills Musical Company’s production of Jekyll and Hyde at the Stirling Community Theatre is simply masterful, bringing this dark and complex tale to life with stunning performances, impressive design, and a hauntingly beautiful score. In my opinion ‘Hills’ have never got a production wrong. I’ve only been seeing their shows the last few years; Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Carrie, Urinetown etc., I have had only glowing reviews of what I’ve experienced. BUT, then this. This is world-class and excellent. So, let’s chat the nuts and bolts and delve deeper…
A Tale of Two Performances: Daniel Hamilton’s Stellar Dual Role
Daniel Hamilton shines in the challenging dual roles of Dr. Henry Jekyll and Mr. Edward Hyde. His ability to embody both the tormented idealist Jekyll and the sinister, unhinged Hyde is nothing short of mesmerising. The physical and vocal transformation between the two characters is seamless, drawing the audience into the emotional turmoil of his internal battle. With no makeup or change in costumery, Daniel transforms himself into a twisted & evil human and is worlds apart from the gentlemanly and refined Dr. Jekyll. Daniel is a killer actor (No pun intended), his abilities are finely crafted. Thank goodness David Hasselfoff was unavailable for this production, ‘cos Daniel now is firmly wearing the crown for this role. I last saw him as Curly in Oklahoma, but, he has now excelled to great standards with this challenging role and I can only bow to him.
Leading Ladies Steal Hearts
Emily Morris as Emma Carew brings grace and warmth to her role, offering a tender counterpoint to the chaos surrounding Jekyll. Meanwhile, Sarah Hamilton’s portrayal of Lucy Harris is both powerful and heartbreaking, delivering vocal performances that linger in the mind long after the final curtain falls. Bravo you wonderful ladies.
A Steampunk Spectacle
Director Ben Stefanoff has opted for a steampunk aesthetic, and it works brilliantly. From the intricate costume designs to the atmospheric set pieces, the Victorian-inspired visual style feels fresh and innovative. But, I must chat about the costumes before I go on. ‘Immaculate’ and ‘Keenly Eyed In Detailing’ are the words that come to mind. All costumes were fitted to perfection which is quite often not the case with a lesser budgeted show. Then combined with effective lighting and sound design, the production immerses the audience in the smoky, mysterious world of 19th-century London.
Acoustically the Stirling Community Theatre is VERY good giving a fabulous audible experience (except for a lady in my row who was constantly coughing and sniffing, literally every two minutes, urgh). The balnce between the music and the voices on stage were tremendously well balanced, and every word sung or spoken was clear and precise. Kudos, this is sometimes not an easy job.
But, back to Ben. Mr Stefanoff has swiftly moved to a Director in Adelaide to watch. His work is sharp and nothing goes unnoticed under his guard. He gets the absolute most of who he works with and produces TOP-NOTCH theatre. Ben’s love of dark story-telling is evident, and he tells it well with a thought out prowess rarely seen. Being also a Musical Director for many shows, Ben’s talents are varied, one of those folk who are Jack of many trades AND 100% a master of all. He’s hands-on and a good human. I dare say it would be a pleasure to work with him.
Musical Mastery
The live orchestra, conducted by Kristin Stefanoff (Ben’s, also extremely talented, wife), breathes life into Frank Wildhorn’s sweeping score. From the haunting ballads to the high-energy ensemble numbers, the music is executed with precision and passion. The balance between the vocalists and orchestra is superb, ensuring that every lyric resonates clearly. There are some bangin’ numbers int his show too. A few stand-outs being ‘Bring On The Men’, ‘Murder, Murder’ & ‘Once Upon A Dream’. But, to be honest, the entire lot of numbers stand tall and proud. High praise for Kristin and indeed the magnificent musicians that are hidden under the boards.
Ensemble Excellence
OK wow! This impressed me. Quite often the ensemble there can be a few weak and clunky links. But, NUP! The ensemble cast is a vital component of the show’s success. This troupe with their synchronized movements and rich harmonies enhance the story’s dramatic moments. Nic Equid, Matthew Owens, and Lachlan Stieger stand out among the ensemble, each bringing individuality to their roles while contributing to the collective energy.
Choreography that Speaks
Mark Stefanoff (Another brilliantly talented family member of Ben’s) and Emily-Jo Davidson’s choreography adds a dynamic layer to the production. From the sultry ‘Red Rat’ tavern scenes to the intense group numbers, the movement on stage is always purposeful and engaging.
A Must-See for Theatre Lovers
The Hills Musical Company’s Jekyll and Hyde is a bold and captivating interpretation of the classic story. With a talented cast, an innovative visual style, and exceptional musical direction, this production is a standout in Adelaide’s theatre scene. Whether you’re a fan of the original tale or simply love a night of outstanding theatre, this show is not to be missed.
How many rip roaring stars? Duh, FIVE!
Catch it at the Stirling Community Theatre before it closes – you’ll leave humming the tunes and marveling at the performances!
Jekyll & Hyde
Stirling Community Theatre
8-23 November 2024
Ticket link
Interview with director Ben Stefanoff below:
Cast
Dr Jekyll / Mr Hyde – Daniel Hamilton
Lucy Harris – Sarah Hamilton
Emma Carew – Emily Morris
John Utterson – Nic Equid
Danvers Carew – Matthew Owens
Simon Stride / Spider – Lachlan Stieger
Lady Beaconsfield – Natasha Scholey
General Lord Glossop – Jon McKay
The Bishop of Basingstoke – Aled Proeve
Sir Archibald Proops / Ensemble – Matt Redmond
Lord Savage / Ensemble – Jamie Wright
Nellie / Ensemble – Grace Carter
Poole / Ensemble – Daniel Steven
Ensemble – Chloe Anderson
Ensemble – Carolina Fioravanti
Ensemble – Hannah Hamilton
Ensemble – Ella Heywood-Smith
Ensemble – Charlotte Lawrence
Ensemble – Thomas McCarthy
Ensemble – Jaimi Wilson
Production Team
Director – Ben Stefanoff
Musical Director – Kristin Stefanoff
Choreographers – Mark Stefanoff & Emily-Jo Davidson
Production Managers – Anthea ‘Harold’ Browne & Katherine Dominish
Props – Shari Harkness-Mills
Lighting Designer – Tim Bates
Costume Design & Coordination – Ben & Kristin Stefanoff
Costuming Team – Tammy Shields, Amanda Davidson, Narelle Lee & the cast
Fight & Stunt Choreography – Anton SchramaSet Design – Ben & Kristin Stefanoff
Set Construction – Gary Davidson
Set Assistance – Jade Stefanoff, Chris O’Brien, HMC Committee, CastKeyboard Programming – Ben Stefanoff
Percussion Programming – Cameron Walker
Stage Manager – Anthea ‘Harold’ Browne
Lighting Operator – Katherine Dominish
Sound Design – Tim Freedman / AllPro Audio
Audio Operator – Martin Gilbert
Orchestra
Music Director / Conductor – Kristin Stefanoff
Keyboard 1 – Leanne Saville
Keyboard 2 – Deborah Brennan
Keyboard 3 – Dylan RufusReed 1 (alto flute/flute) – Nicole Molloy
Reed 2 (english horn/oboe) – Neal Perkins
Reed 3 (alto sax/bass clarinet/clarinet) – Janet Stone
Trumpet – John Nicolson
Trombone – Richard Lange
Horn – Maureen Goldfinch
Percussion – Cameron Walker
Violin 1 – Belinda Porter
Violin 2 – Rachel Banham
Cello – Rachel Bruerville
Bass (double/electric) – Tammy Papps
