ALT presents 'Chemical Imbalance: A Jekyll and Hyde Play'

Prepare to be transported into a world of psychological intrigue as Amarillo Little Theatre presents "Chemical Imbalance: A Jekyll and Hyde Play," a gripping adaptation by Lauren Wilson. This captivating production, directed by Terri Wilson, is set to be held on the Allen Shankles Mainstage, located at 2019 Civic Circle, Oct. 19 through 29.

Audiences are invited to unravel the complexities of the human mind through this enthralling tale of duality. Dr. Jekyll’s research finds him – as usual – investigating the split between good and evil in the human psyche. Of course, things get out of hand when he decides being evil might be more fun! This hilarious spoof of the classic story by Robert Louis Stevenson will have audiences in stitches. "Chemical Imbalance" is a fast-paced romp about walking the tightrope between aristocracy and depravity, and the two worlds of good and evil. This comedic retelling of the classic, dark tale will send shivers of both fear and laughter rattling down anyone’s spine.

"This is really a straight-up physical comedy, so there are a lot of fights and mistaken identity. Once the story starts building up and the craziness ensues, it's non-stop with people falling, getting bonked on the head, Dr. Jekyll hilariously changing into Mr. Hyde. The audience can definitely expect a kind of spooky, truly physical, madhouse comedy," Terri Wilson, artistic director for the production, said.

The play invites the audience to Victorian London, where the brilliant Dr. Henry Jekyll embarks on a daring experiment to separate his contrasting personalities. As the lines blur between his virtuous self and the malevolent Mr. Hyde, the play explores the intricate repercussions of tampering with one's own mind. A tale of suspense, mystery, and psychological exploration unfolds, gripping the audience until the shocking climax.

Wilson said that although the story is similar at its core to the original story, including the transformation of the Dr., it then leads to a different interpretation including a series of complex events.

"The core is the same in the Dr. wanting to control his ability to change from good to evil. His idea is that everybody has a little bit of both inside, so if you can control it, for him that's through this potion, but then you can take control of all of humanity," Wilson said.

The production boasts a talented cast led by Zach Oehm as Henry Jekyll. He is supported by a skilled ensemble, including Joanna Kimbell as Euphronia Jekyll, Evelyn Reeder as Ambrosia Jekyll, Marley Hoggatt as Lady Throckmortonshire, Rainanne Burrough as Ensemble, Jeri Tidmore as Rosamunda Dewthistle, Michael Newman as Xavier Utterson, Ashley Devoid as Ivy, Treva Oller as Plodgett, Scott Royster as Constable, and Nels Bjork as Police Lieutenant.

Under Wilson's direction, the creative team will bring the world of "Chemical Imbalance" to vivid reality, immersing the audience in the atmospheric streets of Victorian London.

Be part of this thought-provoking theatrical journey that probes the depths of human nature. Secure your tickets today and immerse yourself in the world of Jekyll and Hyde with a humorous twist.

Showtimes are Oct. 19 and 26 at 7:30 p.m.; Oct. 20, 21, 27, at 28 at 8 p.m.; and Oct. 22 and 29 at 2:30 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased in person at the Amarillo Little Theatre box office during business hours, online at www.amarillolittletheatre.org, or by phone at (806) 355-9991.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Amarillo Little Theatre stages 'Chemical Imbalance: Jekyll and Hyde'