Review of Jekyll & Hyde: The Musical

I nearly decided not to post my remarks because my reaction to this video is so similar to that of many other posters: It's a good show that is, alas, nearly ruined by the presence of the inadequate David Hasselhoff as Jekyl-Hyde. His singing is below average, his acting is atrocious, and he moves with all the grace of a water buffalo. Hasselhoff's weaknesses were made more noticeable than they might otherwise have been because the production was otherwise very good. The two female leads, Coleen Sexton, as Lucy, and Andrea Rivette, as Emma Carew, are excellent. Sexton and Rivette have one duet that was moving and beautifully sung. In fairness to Hasselhoff, I must confess that it seems to me that few actor singers have the talent to really pull off the dauntingly demanding Jekyl-Hyde role. Len Cariou or George Hearn could have done the job both dramatically and musically – 25 years ago. But these days, I don't know who could do it. I like this musical and would like to see it performed with someone in the title role who can really sing and act. I gave this video 6 out of 10, but I cannot really recommend it because Hasselfoff's presence makes it, on balance, not worth the candle.