Jekyll & Hyde At The Buell Theatre

It has been a while since I saw this. It always seems to take a while for me to get my reviews out there. It is sad because really I don’t write a ton in them.
I really loved the play, I saw opening night. Don’t know if it was my seats or if I was just luckier than others. I thought the sound was really good and spot on. I had read the books, seen the various movies, and knew the story pretty good. Even with that said I am pretty sure you could go see it to be entertained.
Lots of singing which was kind of strange but still really good. The characters were all really good.

I was not into the beginning. The main characters voice was not great but he did get better. The two main females were great when they sang together. I liked the setting and costumes.
I liked Hyde better than Jekyll. He was more exciting. He was a Schizophrenic because of the drugs he took. Interesting story.
Not one of the best shows I have seen but I certainly enjoyed myself. I am so glad I got to see the show. Thank you Unilocal

Two words… SOUND CHECK!!!
I bought tickets myself and am very frustrated. The clarity of sound when Constantine was singing was a real problem. I’m not sure if it was him trying to belt out the anger of Hyde or the Buell’s system not being able to handle the volume, but you could barley understand anything he sang. I also had problems understanding the maid and butler group singing.
On the other hand, the two women were fantastic! With almost crystal clear voices. Another thing on the plus side is this play did hold my interest even if I could not understand all the words.

I’m not much of a theater critic, but i know what I like. I was impressed with this play. The lead, Constantine, particularly impressed me with his voice. He did a great job varying his singing voice between his dual roles. The sound effects and lighting bordered on movie special effects, and the play overall flowed very well. I really found myself engrossed in this, and I always loved the story to begin with.
One of my favorite things about Unilocal is the opportunities to enjoy an evening like this. It reminds you how much Denver has to offer besides the usual dinner and drinks type of thing. Cheers to you Frances, for getting us in!

I may have been one of the only ones in the audience that didn’t know the premise of the story for the most part. With that said you don’t really need to know the story to understand the musical.
I loved the play on the demons of man and the good vs. evil. Constantine and Deborah Cox were outstanding together. The magnanimous voices consumed the theater and made me feel for each character, Jekyll and Hyde especially. I was fully invested in each character and what would happen every minute. I never imagined I would be so invested in each persona.
This is musical is predominantly singing, very little talking, so if you don’t like all singing musicals this won’t be for you. It was truly a pleasure to enjoy opening night and thank you to Unilocal for the opportunity.

Wow. Once again I’m privileged to be able to attend one of these Elite events. Glad I finally got to meet you, Francis, in person and thank you for all of your efforts putting this event into play.
What’s not to like about a night at the theatre? This night had it all: a friendly mix of interesting people, a provocative show, amazing special effects and entertainment that had me at times squirming then tearing up.
What stood out for me about this production of Jekyll & Hyde was the amazing special effects. From the moment the curtain rose, to the last scene, I was blown away by the care that went into creating energy and excitement on stage. At one point I thought I was at a remake of the rock musical Tommy; at another I felt like I was an old-​fashioned Ozzy Osborn concert! The ensemble was tight — Constantine really embodied his character and I didn’t mind the ocassional fuzziness in his voice for I thought that reflected the character he was playing. The women in this ensemble, though, stole the show. Amazing vocals from both of the leads.
I did think the storyline dragged a bit in the middle, but it was a terrific night of theatre. See this show for the vocals alone (but you’ll be blown away by the special effects).

It was opening night, for Jekyll & Hyde and other than a few minor flaws (at the beginning of the show), where a few early squeaks and squeals belted out from the cast, the singing was incredible.
Could have easily been the altitude.
My goodness there’s a lot of singing in this musical. This is the pre-​Broadway adaptation, with a tweaked script, different song lists and an incredibly brilliant set.
The star is none other than American Idol (and Rock of Ages) Constantine Maroulis, who is literally on stage singing and acting during 90% of the show. But I feel he was overshadowed and (over-​powered) by his co-star’s voices.
Deborah Cox («Nobody’s Supposed To Be Here») didn’t hold back, what a voice, what a performance. Teal Wicks-​What a great name eh? (Wicked on Broadway) was also masterful. I just felt Constantine took a back seat every time these two were on stage next to him.
Don’t get me wrong, he’s good. Really, really good! I thought when he sang as Dr. Jekyll, he was just too soft, delicate and deserted. But when his character became Mr. Hyde, that’s when his voice was released and his pure, raw abilities came to life and he was more reckless.
If Cox or Wicks weren’t so damn good, I would have never thought the vocals of Maroulis to be vulnerable.
A must see, as I know Constantine will only get better and stronger.

Definitely not the Jekyll & Hide That I remember. This is So much more.
The casts are great. 2 Singers who are very well talented as the Main Cast. And the Supporting Cast very talented. The songs carry all the way thru. And the Orchestra is great.
This is a Musical, and a Burlesque with a Racy Adult side. Then they throw in a tale of a Love Triangle as well. If you could call it such.
Not a Bad seat in the house, or a Empty Seat in the house.
I definitely would’nt take the kids to see it, unless you want to shield their little eyes at some points during the show. Maroulis really shined as Hyde when he really seemed to be himself.
The way they played 2 scenes at once, and the theatrics and effects, both sound and lighting.
Another outstanding Performance.

Different people have different opinions, that’s for sure. Here’s what I thought. I thought it was a great play; I liked that it was thought provoking. Do we all have evil within us? I like to think my evil side is very small.
I thought Constantine Maroulis did an amazing job with the acting. I would have preferred a bit stronger singer. Maybe I’m spoiled having recently seen Hugh Jackman in «Les Mis.»
Deborah Cox was most impressive. I think she may be the next Whitney Houston.
Great evening! I recommend the show!

One of the best musicals I have seen at the Buell! From the very beginning, I enjoyed the storyline, the performances by all the cast and the visually appealing set designs.
Deborah Cox was definitely the star of the show with a powerful performance and showcasing her apt ability to hit all the notes. The transformation of Constantine from Dr. Jekyll to Mr. Hyde was also a very intriguing and visually striking performance.
I thought the flow of the show was great from start to finish and was very well thought. As always, The Buell is a great place to see a performance without a bad seat in the house. I strongly recommend anyone looking for a good time to come out and enjoy this show.

Simply MAD about this show!
Not sure why others feel so differently, but I entered with low expectations and a good buzz on and had a fantabulous experience! I have seen my fair share of musical performances too, and this one was great in my opinion! Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the visuals were great and the crowd was a diverse delight.
Loved Constantine’s voice (speaking and singing) as well as his persona, he was impressive. The TV commercials were way off! All of the talent was amazing and Deborah Cox was fabulous as well, she will no doubt continue to be successful. The entire cast put on a great performance and I was hypnotized from beginning to end! The accents were great! Not too intense, I felt like I was right in jolly olé England!
The sets and the costumes were super too! Loved the second song where five characters got dressed into their complicated costumes before our eyes with their servants singing along! The sets were excellent, simple yet interesting. Modern and classic, efficient and elegant. I loved the weird brothel scene with the crazy ropes, what a visual treat! The costumes were amazing, made you feel like you were back in olden times!
The murders were a little off, poorly ‘choreographed’ (?). But the one dance scene was fun, using the set in an interesting way. Plus, they could’ve differentiated the Dr. and the Mr. a little more visually. But, these are minor criticisms. Overall, I enjoyed this show thoroughly!
Plus, I truly liked the music. The orchestra was spot on, the voices were powerful and the lyrics were well written. Evidently it is not for everyone, but I truly enjoyed myself as did the group I was with. I count myself quite lucky that I was able to partake in this experience! Thanks Unilocal

I have been to many-​a-​musical in my day. I even took a class in the history and development of American musical theater in college, so I have quite a bit to of background for comparison on this show.
I simply wasn’t captivated by the show. The stage and effects were great, the story has amazing potential, but it just didn’t quite give me the «wow» factor that I have seen with many successful and popular shows in the past.
Grammy-​nominee Deborah Cox lived up to every expectation I could ever have for a Broadway star. Her acting was great, her singing was phenomenal, and she kept my attention whenever on stage. American Idol star Constantine Maroulis left something to be desired from a male lead. Aside from a few hiccups, his singing was very good, but his acting did not quite draw me in as much as Deborah Cox. Something just felt a bit off in his performance. Maybe it is that I am not a 14 year old girl that was swooning over an American Idol contestant? (I have never watched the show and had not heard of Constantine Maroulis before the show)
Overall, it was a good experience. It was not a spectacular show, but it did make for a fun date night.
(Thanks to Unilocal for providing me with tickets to the event!)

Dark & mysterious Edward Hyde. Gentle & smart Henry Jekyll. So it begins. Constantine Maroulis is Dr Jekyll/​Mr. Hyde. Deborah Cox is Lucy. Teal Wicks is Emma Carew. It is opening night with more to come. Definitely not for the faint of heart, or kids.
Let me start out by saying, yes, I’ve been to quite a few musicals/​plays throughout my life. I’ve seen (to name a few): Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, Into the Woods, Mama Mia, Jersey Boys, Cats, Mary Poppins, White Christmas, and more.
The original story, Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, was written by Robert Louis Stevenson, and first published in 1886. Jekyll & Hyde (the play), was first introduced in 1990, and later became the play, earning Tony Award nominations.
I wasn’t sure what to expect, except that both my husband and I were excited to see the performance, ready for anything. The play started with a man in a straight jacket, who is obviously insane, and is at an institution. Dr. Jekyll is trying to help him, as it’s his father. Be forewarned, this scene is not for the light hearted, and that’s all I’ll say. Dr. Jekyll (Constantine) starts into the song, «Lost in the Darkness,» and it’s not that good. His misses a few notes at the end of the song — ouch!
Deborah Cox (Lucy) has a wonderful voice! Too bad the show couldn’t have given her a few more chances to show it off! Teal Wicks (Emma) has a decent voice. The song, «In His Eyes,» in Act Two, had both women singing together, and it was very well done! The two of them really hit the notes! Deborah Cox was absolutely wonderful, and she carried the play, carried the performance.
As for Constantine Maroulis (Jekyll/​Hyde), I’m not sure what to say. He has a good voice, and can really hit the notes, but many of the words were difficult to understand, as the notes were too high, and the accompanying music was too loud. Constantine was very hard to believe in this role. After the performance, my husband stated that at one point, Constantine goes down to the ground (kneeling), and my husband thought he might come back up with «an air guitar.» I could see that too. I kept thinking that Constantine was just there to perform (sing) in front of a live audience, forget the rest of the cast, forget the story.
There was definitely a story line, but no character development. In this type of story, you want to cheer for the characters, as you see what they are going through (like the Wicked Witch in «Wicked,» you are just pulling for her!). There was absolutely no character development. I couldn’t pull for anyone, except for Lucy, but then, even her story line was short.
We wanted to leave at intermission, and I must admit, that I started thinking about leaving early, about 10 minutes into the show. My husband had an empty seat in front of him after the intermission. I noticed several more empty seats around too. No, we stayed, as we kept hoping that it would get better, it never did.
There were a few good lines, one in particular that will describe all the reviews for this show, as some people will like it, some won’t. The line, delivered by Edward Hyde is, «A friend and I, are having a disagreement.» Either, you’ll like the play, or you won’t. We definitely did not, and cannot recommend it.

Oh wow. I’m a little shocked to see some 4 and 5 star reviews. If I had left at intermission (like the many people nearly knocking me over on their way out the door), I would have given it a much better review but all I can say about the second act is wow.
Generally I had a good night but not sure I would walk away happy if I spent real money on the tickets. If you are going, please don’t take your children– its dark and somewhat graphic sexually.
First Act: Opening night issues but generally surprised at the quality of the voices. There was a reverb in a speaker to my left which was driving everyone crazy in addition to some lighting adjustments and sound level adjustments. I, for one, thought Constantine was well cast and I like the rocker voice (although he had a little bit of a cold and it showed). Yeah, his accent was off but who cares and the women next to me were disappointed that the arrangements of their favorite songs were catered to Constantine rather than tradition. Deborah Cox blew me away, great voice. I really liked the set and the lighting design was notably good. And did anyone mention that the voice of Gaston from Beauty and the Beast is prominently featured? Love him.
Second Act: We started off good. And then at the crescendo things just got down right ridiculous. The special effects reminded me of being at an amusement park or a haunted house. You might be confused that we are experiencing a live version of a 90’s music video. What a horrible way to end. I found myself wishing I had left at intermission.
No offense to my fellow Unilocalers, but anyone giving it a 5 was not seated near me. Did they not get tipped off by the people running to get out during the closing? People laughing during the second half (not in a good way)? Wow, just wow.

I am a huge fan of musical theater and theater in general. I’ve been on stage and behind the scenes. I’ve been to more theatrical productions than I can count. I understand that opening nights can be rough. But this was a trainwreck from the start, so much so that I left at intermission, something I’ve never done in my life.
Constantine Maroulis as Jekyll/​Hyde was, I’m sorry to say, just terrible. Ok, he can belt out some loud notes, but that’s about it. There was no character development in the first act, he just got louder or softer as the scene demanded. He gave a little kick and fist pump at the end of one song that was about the anguish of finding his true identity that made it look like he was the lead singer of an 80s hair-​metal band. It seems like Maroulis is still playing the American Idol/​Rock of Ages role, and it looks ridiculous in this incarnation.
Deborah Cox has quite an excellent voice, but it bothered me that the vocal arrangements pandered to her R&B background; you could hear her Whitney Houston backup singer voice sneaking through on several big notes and it was distracting at best. She did her level best to hold the show together, but the train was hurtling down the tracks by the time she came in midway through the first act.
The «British» accents were all over the place; the inconsistencies on that front were borderline astonishing.
The set design was really quite excellent, and that gave me something positive to focus on as the «story» unfolded in front of me. Also, the guy who played the Bishop was very good — huge presence, very strong voice.
This one just didn’t land for me. As others have said, I’m sure glad I didn’t pay money for the tickets.

Once again, thanks to Unilocal for affording me the opportunity to witness major Broadway Events, as they make their way through Denver on their national tours. Jekyll & Hyde was no exception. Is it horror? Is it a love story? Is the plot cumbersome? Yes to all.
The saving grace of this show was the amazing performances of the lead actors, Constantine Maroulis and Deborah Cox. At first, I was concerned about Maroulis: his voice seemed weak, especially compared to Ms. Cox, who took control early. Then, there was his transformation in Hyde, and he blew us away.
The only thing that kept this from being top notch was a so-​so story, and basic staging. Otherwise, it’s another wonderful night on Broadway in Denver.

So let’s discuss a little something called character development. At the beginning of the production the CHARACTER of Henry Jekyll was mild mannered, nervous and underscored. I found the shakiness of his voice in line with the CHARACTER that was being portrayed. As the show progressed the confidence, cruelty and forcefulness of Edward Hyde came to the forefront. This was a deliberate transformation to show how deep a man can fall into the dark recesses of humanity. People be hatin’ cuz they don’t understand.
The sets — oh my the sets were simple, functional and a visual treat to the senses! With the turn of a wall we were in the streets of London, a grand ballroom, a hospital, a lounge, a rooftop bedroom. Smoke machines and pinpoint lights added to the dark and dank ambiance of the London setting.
As mentioned in many reviews Deborah Cox owned the show. She has incredible stage presence and confidence in her risqué CHARACTER’s movements and inner workings. The scene in the Spider Web was so much fun and so well done that I felt I was in the bordello. More over, Ms. Cox has shown that she can transform into a «lady of the night» but also represent the soft underbelly that makes us all human. Desire for love and acceptance are universal — and she pulled it off!
The one thing I was a bit put off about was the fact that this was basically a rock opera. Most lines were delivered in a sing-​song kind of way that detracted from the progression of the story. But, this is minor compared to the outstanding quality of the production as a whole.
In this day and age people just want to be entertained and not even know why they like what they do. On the flip side, if they don’t enjoy it they assume it’s the production’s fault instead of their own superficial, «dance for me monkey» attitudes. Especially with a show like Jekyll & Hyde one has to dig deep into the dark barrel of the mind to understand the true horror of humanity. If you aren’t willing to think then why bother going to the theater?
The duality of Jekyll & Hyde isn’t a light topic. I found the dark, sexual, hypocritical nature of the characters to be an honest reflection of people; people who aren’t afraid to embrace their darkness because they can learn from it. If you want fluffy and flowers go see a Disney show. Otherwise, come into this production prepared to be challenged.
Finally, I thought the end was right on point. There was almost a Romeo & Juliet tragic quality to this show. The representation of the dual CHARACTERS of Jekyll & Hyde was done so well with lights and projectors I feel it would have fit better towards the end of act one. However, the true inner struggle of the main character was heavy and hard — that’s the theater I love. You have to work for it!

I love going to these shows. I am very grateful that Unilocal provides me opportunities to see things I would probably otherwise not experience. Thank you to Frances for putting this together.
I thoroughly enjoyed parts of Jekyll and Hyde. However, other parts left me somewhat impatient to move the story along. The production values and the acting were outstanding. I was riveted by the darker aspects of the story and enjoyed the funnier bits as well. The «love story» aspects of the show just did not seem to engage me on a personal level. Also, although I think I am pretty good when it comes to «willing suspension of disbelief», I was somewhat disappointed in the Jekyll to Hyde (and vice-​versa) transformations. Perhaps television and film have spoiled me, but the formula of (glasses + ponytail = Jekyll) & (no glasses — ponytail = Hyde) did not quite provide me the change impact I wanted. I think the scene where Hyde throws Lord Savage in front of the train was brilliant.
To Constantine Maroulis. «Your range is incredible. I would love to hear you sing Iron Maiden’s ‘Run To The Hills’.»
To Deborah Cox. «You have the voice of an angel.»
To David Benoit: (who played Bishop and Spider). «Your performance as the Bishop was my favorite part of the first act. I found your acting riveting and your singing captivating. Your comedic timing as Spider was also spot-​on. And, as a bonus, I enjoyed being able to meet you in the lobby after the show. You seem like a cool and friendly person.
To the entire cast of Jekyll & Hyde: «You did an amazing job last night and I am seriously impressed at the quality of what you do, and your ability to do it through so many performances.»
To the tall man with the large head in the row in front of us who blocked a good portion of our view of the stage. «Thank you for getting bored with the show and leaving at the intermission. We very much enjoyed our unobstructed view during the second act.»
To the young woman sitting nearby who texted throughout most of the second act (section D, row P, if that helps you know who you are). «Guess, what? We can still see you. You are being rude and inconsiderate and you should either put your phone away, or go out to the lobby and continue your texting, if it is REALLY that important to you.»

Deborah Cox, I apologize in advance. If this review focused solely on your performance…5 stars. But, alas, this was not a one woman show. Deborah Cox was fantastic. A true performer that can captivate an audience. She didn’t have the support to make this show a success, unfortunately. I was not feeling Constantine’s performance. At all. He was not convincing in this role in my opinion and it made it difficult to truly get drawn into the story.
It’s so weird, because I am not a drama critic. I go to plays for fun, for an escape. So for me to really dislike a performance — it’s kinda saying something because I’m fairly easy to please. Outside of Constantine’s performance — I have to say that I really did not like the digital stage props. Maybe I’m old fashioned that way but the photos of the outdoors, the buildings, flashed up on the huge stage props did not do it for me. It lacked the creativity that always amazes me when I go to plays and see the incredible, intricate sets they have on the stage.
Honestly — I wanted to leave at the intermission. I wanted to leave sooner than that but Deborah’s performance saved it for me.

I don’t do 5 stars.
I think very few things are perfect.
But…
This was Hot!
This was passionate
This was unreal.
This was women around me panting with desire over Jekyll and Hyde.
Oh, Edward.
Oh, Henry
Oh,
I, Wow, was the lucky guy to be sitting in this crowd.
Was it opening night?
Was it the show?
Was it???
I don’t know.
But…
I’ll say.
Go to this show.
Go with someone passionate.
Go only with someone passionate.
NO boring allowed.
This was Hot.
This was Wow!
This is the show that makes other shows blush.
This is the show that makes other shows cower.
Just Go.