The National Production Company has created a new, “ingenious” adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson’s novella Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde in virtual reality which needs only a smartphone to access it.
Jekyll and Hyde was filmed using specialist 360° recording equipment over two days in the studio at the Albany Theatre, Coventry. The National Production Company show “stays true to the original tale while embracing the comedic magic of theatre in a hilarious, fast-paced spin”. It is “full of unexpected highs and lows, quick costume changes and sharp wit”.
Jekyll and Hyde director Andrew Alton said, “if audiences can’t come to us, we’ll come to them. As live theatre is currently not an option, we had to figure out a way of getting our productions out there. Virtual reality was a way of doing that while keeping the immersive and magical aspect of live theatre. It’s been so much fun to create.”
The Albany’s technical manager Dan Tilley added, “it was a great opportunity to get back into the theatre and be creative with the set, lighting and sound. Virtual reality is a little different to our normal events but what a wonderful way to bring theatre to our audiences while we’re closed.”
Jekyll and Hyde is suitable for anyone aged 13 and over. It is available to pre-order at the Albany Theatre web site. The £18.99 package includes a cardboard VR headset and programme. The show will be available from Friday 11 September.