Jekyll & Hyde: Remember Me

~ In Emma King-Farlow's sensitive and intelligent adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's story "the Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde" there is much to admire. The adaptation itself "Jekyll and Hyde - Remember me" - shows considerable insight - demonstrating themes of the "sharp compassion of the healer's art" with elements of the desire to control and the idea that we all brutalize ourselves in pursuit of knowledge and success and, in doing so, destroy that which might have made us great. Emma King-Farlow, in taking an innovative and creative look at this classic, does so on many levels, revealing Dr Jekyll's brilliance and humanity as well as the deeply flawed, darker side of his nature. In so doing she has unveiled a short but immensely powerful and moving story with a universal meaning that goes beyond Victorian London and the tale of a man whose choices destroy him. I found it inspiring and revelatory. The four actors portray these complex and nuanced ideas and emotions with consummate skill. In a small space with music, creative movement and talents that are often superb, they tell the story and it's terrifying transformation with great power and truth. None of the final pathos is lost. This is a wonderful production that reaches far above the space it is performed in. I urge you to see it. I am so glad I did. I am the richer for it.