Rep's professional stamp, Williams' tour de force / Exhibits by Syjuco, others

The Repertory Philippines presentations I have seen always bear the stamp of professionalism. The current musicale “Jekyll and Hyde” is no exception. Every single player, whether a minor or major one, typically gives his/her utmost best as though the success of the entire production depended on his/her sole effort.

In a sense, it does: the smallest mistake - a missed cue or line in the dialogue, a mis-step (the right foot rather than the left in a dance) – can ruin a scene.

The stamp of professionalism, I repeat, is obvious throughout the show. Each member – which helps to narrate the story – of the ensemble sings, dances and acts with joie de vivre, energy, enthusiasm and vigor. The ensemble’s precision, its “togetherness” is incredible. Thus, the song-and-dance sequences are sparkling highlights.

Further, the set changes are on the instant, at the wink of an eye. The costumes of Raven Ong – the coats, shawls, gowns, even the shoes – are authentic, thereby establishing the unmistakable ambiance of the Victorian era.

Conceived for the stage by Steve Cueden and Frank Widham, with book and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse, and music by Frank Widham, “Jekyll and Hyde” is directed by Menchu Lauchengco Yulo, a keenly perceptive over-seer. Based on the story of Robert Louis Stevenson, it differs vastly from he movie version and Stevenson’s book although the basic story and its moral values remain.

Veteran Rep actor Junix Inocian, who has been acclaimed on Broadway and the West End, makes a singular comeback, lending considerable credence to his role as John Utterson, close friend of Dr. Jekyll.

Kalila Aguila is the harlot Lucy Harris whose sensuous hip-swaying and sultry singing are irresistible to men, including Jekyll. Cris Villonco as Emma Carew, a winsome, delicate beauty, is Jekyll’s fiancées, and her sweet, enchanting singing voice, refined and gentle manner point her up as the start contrast to Lucy.

Supporting roles are played with distinction by Steve Cadd as Sir Danvers Carew (Emma’s father), Jack Salud as Simon Stude, Red Nuestro as Bishop of Basingstoke and Mayen Bustamante Cadd as Lady Beaconsfield.

Michael Williams, who portrays Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, is more than marvelous. He is magnificent! Rational, dignified, engaging as Dr. Jeykll, he turns into the ranting, raving, scheming murderer Mr. Hyde, walking unsteadily or perilously, of swooning after he imbibes the secret potion that turns him into evil incarnate.

(Owing to the exigencies of theater, Jekyll’s transformation to Hyde is internal, not external or physical.)

As the musicale progresses, Williams delivers his lines and sings with increasingly dramatic and shattering impact. The two opposing characters take total possession of him. Conversely, he takes full possession of his dual role. Indeed, Williams’ acting is a tour de force.

(Jett Pangan is the alternate Jekyll-Hyde; doubtless, artistic director Carmen Barredo and his associate Menchu can justify their choice of the seasoned, highly talented Jett.)

The Manila String Machine, made up of young instrumentalists, provides spirited, flawless, inspiring support. Incidentally, the songs, except for “This is the Moment”, are not lyrical or melodious; often, they tend to be dissonant. The lighting effects frequently plunge the players into semi-darkness. Is this meant to create a sinister, gloomy atmosphere for the musicale’s murder and mayhem?

The excellent singers-dancers, who are under the direction of musical director Only Torres and choreographer Natalie Everett, are Cara Barredo, Teenee Chan, Tricia Amper-Jimenez, Lisa Infante-Robinson, Giannina Ocampo (Swing), Eda Briones, Topper Fabregas, David Fabros and Gary Junsay.

The rest of the players, who do their share to bring the musicale to bristling life, are Oliver Usison, General Lord Glossop; Reuben Uy, Lord Savage; Jamie Inocian, Sir Archibald Proops; Spider, Jamie Wilson; Poole (the butler) James Stacey; Nellie, Natalie Everett; Hans Eckstein, Bisset.

“Jekyll and Hyde”, which runs through April 15 at Onstage, is a most engrossing riveting show. Go and experience it!

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Admirably versatile Cesare A.X. Syjuco, visual artist, writer, poet, critic and musician, is currently exhibiting “A Life of the Mind/His Poems for Walls” until April 26 at Galeria Duemila, 210 Loring St., Pasay.

Elmer Borlongan and Plet Bolipata will open their joint exhibit “When the Earth Smells of Water” tomorrow, April 12, at the Alliance Franciase de Manille Gallery. The show ends May 3.