I’m Not Split on Liking West Hempstead’s Jekyll and Hyde the Musical….

I had the opportunity to attend the Friday night show of West Hempstead’s High School production of Jekyll and Hyde the Musical with my family. There was a good vibe as the crowd filled the seats and anticipation rose. It was nice to see some students who recently graduated in attendance as well.

My seats were pretty close to the orchestra and I knew they would play an integral part in setting the mood this evening.  As the curtains opened, I was impressed with the stage work and costumes. I have to say that I honestly did not recall the entire story of Dr. Jekyll until it unfolded before me last night.

“Jekyll’s Plea/Board of Governors” (Played by Ozzie Machado, Paige Smallwood, Amanda Onorato, Jake Berkowitz, Mike Sands, Esiri Madagwa Jr., Axandre Oge,  Dylan Libby ) set the stage for Dr. Jekyll’s anger to build.

I thought “Bring on the Men” (Performed by Nancy Quintana) was a fantastic, fun and riske’ type of song. As the musical progressed, it was nice to see familiar faces as I recognized some of the students from previous productions. As Dr. Jekyll transformed to Edward Hyde throughout the performance, the orchestra music “darkened” and I noticed that my 9-year-old son would move a little closer to my wife. This was a clear sign that he was anxious and slightly fearful as Edward Hyde played a more prominent role.

“Lucy’s Death/Sympathy, Tenderness Reprise” highlighted that Dr. Jekyll was losing the mental and physical battle to Edward Hyde.

“The Confrontation / (Lost in the Darkness Reprise)” was absolutely fantastic as Ozzie Machado would instantaneously transform back and forth as Dr. Jekyll and Edward Hyde. Mr. Machado definitely captured the essence of good and evil without a fancy costume but just by letting his hair down and changing his voice and facial expressions.

All in all, the entire cast, crew, orchestra and teachers did a great job…There is no split here….Jekyll and Hyde is a hit! Check it out tonight!