Korean favorite 'Jekyll & Hyde' returns with Broadway cast

Cast members for the world tour of “Jekyll & Hyde” pose during a press conference at the Dress Garden in Gangnam, Seoul, last Tuesday. From left are Bradley Dean, Lindsey Bliven, Kyle Dean Massey and Diana Degarmo. / Yonhap

By Kwon Mee-yoo

Koreans love split-personality characters and it is no wonder the musical "Jekyll & Hyde," based on the 1886 novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, is one of Korea’s favorite musical dramas.

The musical, with music and lyrics by Frank Wildhorn and book by Leslie Bricusse, made its Broadway debut in 1997 and landed in Korea in 2004. Since then, the show has been staged over 1,000 times here and attracted over 1.1 million ticket sales.

Set in 19th century London, the show revolves around Dr. Jekyll, who believes the good and evil in a person can be separated. Its exploration of the dark side of humanity’s dualism, detailed descriptions of characters and dramatic music have contributed to the musical’s immense popularity in Korea.

Jointly produced by Korea's OD Musical Company and the U.S. Work Light Productions, a new production of "Jekyll & Hyde" with top Broadway actors will launch a tour production in Korea.

The new world tour is directed by David Swan, who helmed the successful Korean production for over a decade. "The idea of merging the wonderful Korean staff and our fabulous designers with first-rate Broadway and American cast is a very exciting part," Swan said.

The role of Jekyll/Hyde could be challenging as the actor has to move back and forth between good and evil. In this production Kyle Dean Massey and Bradley Dean alternate the role of the good doctor and his violent alternate personality.

"It's always wonderful to be able to bring Broadway to different cultures and different countries, and so we're thrilled to be here with Jekyll & Hyde," Massey said.

Massey, known for playing Fiyero in "Wicked," Gabe in "Next to Normal" and Pippin in "Pippin" on Broadway, is excited to take on the role which is entirely different from his previous roles.

“On Broadway, I’ve been played younger, boyish characters. I’m looking forward to exploring the darker side of myself in this role,” Massey said.

The other Jekyll/Hyde Dean said, "I know how passionate Korean audiences are, especially for this show. It will be my honor to perform for you all and I'll try to match your passion with my own."

Director Swan spoke highly of the two actors who will add unique flavors to the role. “When Korean audiences see one Jekyll, they're going to want to come back and see the other one and it's going to be a real big treat for the Korean fans."

“American Idol” runner-up Diana Degarmo will play Lucy Harris, a prostitute whose life changes after encountering Jekyll, and Lindsey Bliven will take on the role of Emma Carew, Jekyll's fiancee.

This production is an ambitious project of OD Musical Company, aiming to expand its market globally.

"The Korean musical theater market is saturated and I think the contents should target the world market," Shin said. "Jekyll & Hyde has been successful over 10 years in Korea and I hope to put it on the international market with a touch of universal sentiments."

Ultimately, Shin plans to take the world tour of “Jekyll & Hyde” to Asia, Europe and America. "We are in talks with Singapore and Macau to stage the touring production as well as China," Shin said.

The world tour production of “Jekyll & Hyde” will be staged at the Keimyung Arts Center in Daegu from Dec. 1 to 25, Sohyang Theater in Busan from Dec. 31 to Jan. 8, Daejeon Arts Center from Jan. 13 to 15, Gimhae Arts and Sports Center in South Gyeongsang Province from Feb. 3 to 5 and finally at Blue Square in Seoul from March 10 to May 21. Tickets cost from 40,000 won to 150,000 won. For more information, visit interpark.com or call 1588-5212.