What’s it all about?
This literary classic gets a sexy makeover from 2016’s Olivier Award-winning choreographer Drew McOnie. Following his sensational work on Bugsy Malone and In The Heights, dance’s hottest property is showing the world his dark side in a dance thriller that is as likely to turn you on as turn your stomach.
With a throbbing, electronic soundtrack, the tale of a man caught between two personalities gets an imaginative 1950s makeover. And while the cliché mad scientist may is replaced by a flower shop owner with less than green fingers, never fear, his dusty workshop becomes a new home for the creation of mind-altering potions and everything is not coming up roses…
Who’s in it?
With the battle of good versus evil, weakness versus strength, this story makes for perfect dance material, and Daniel Collins and Tim Hodges as Jekyll and Hyde respectively bring a dangerous violent energy to the struggle for one to win with every leap, lift or deadly swipe of a knife.
Collins is loveably vulnerable as a man prone to break out in a jig at the sight of a pretty girl, while his counterpoint Hodges is suave, strong, chilling and deadly. Everything you want from a Mr Hyde.
What should I look out for?
Well, first things first, the choreography. It’s two hours of constant energy, verve, sensuality and excitement. McOnie’s work, with all its rollercoaster of twists and turns, continues to be a revelation.
West End regular Rachel Muldoon, as Jekyll’s fated crush Dahlia. Don’t even try and tear your eyes away from her, she’s electric.
Who was in the press night crowd?
We spotted McOnie’s mentor Matthew Bourne looking suitably proud.
In a nutshell?
Drew McOnie’s star is not so much rising as soaring, with another triumph in the bag as his terrifying, intense, dark and downright raunchy Jekyll & Hyde sets hearts racing.
What’s being said on Twitter?
#JekyllandHyde @oldvictheatre is extraordinary, gripping, powerful theatre with a breathtaking score by my spiritual leader @grantolding ????????
— Harry Blake (@harryblakemusic) May 26, 2016
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#JekyllandHyde Now THAT’S how you tell a story in dance.
— Luke Jennings (@LukeJennings1) May 24, 2016
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Will I like it?
If you’re a dance fan, you have to see this. It’s fresh, vibrant, dark, twisted and, yes I’m going to say it again, sexy to the max. And for those usually non-plussed by the art form? With McOnie’s astute storytelling skills, you might just find yourself falling under his masterful spell.
Jekyll & Hyde is playing until 28 May. You can book tickets through us here.