“It’s such a fine line, between a good man and a bad.”
This short phrase, sung by a despondent Dr. Henry Jekyll in Act 2, frames this entire work of fiction. Most human beings live hiding behind some kind of facade, a “face that [they] wear.” While this show’s exploration of what lies behind the facade is exaggerated and grotesque, it demonstrates the duality that exists within each of us. Through these caricatures, we can explore the damage that pride, arrogance, single-mindedness, self-righteousness, and malevolence have on the human condition. The lessons that we can glean by examining ourselves behind that facade are profound. We are so much more than black and white, good and evil. We are more than we appear to be.
I cannot overstate how proud I am of the cast, crews, and pit of this production. From an emotional, musical, and technical standpoint, this show is one of the most difficult productions to ever grace the Arts and Education stage. They have delved into emotionally difficult and sensitive topics with maturity. They have afforded each other grace and compassion. They have worked collaboratively to breathe life into this particularly dark, profound, and continuously moving work. For the next few hours, they will take you behind the facade. The work you see is a direct result of their effort, pain, sweat, time, and dedication.
I would also like to express my gratitude to our building and district administrators, for trusting in us to bring this intense, difficult, and complicated work to life. To my talented production team: thank you for your tireless pursuit of artistic excellence. As much as the students, you have helped to bring this production to the stage. Without your skilled help, this production would not have been possible.
The spirit of collaboration is living and breathing here at the Arts and Education Auditorium. The arts are active and vibrant here in our corner of Northwest Ohio. We sincerely hope that you enjoy this performance.
Benjamin D. Lupo
Director
