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There’s no way to Hyde the strange similarities to Jekyll’s case
IT is a story of secret plotting, violent outbursts, and all-consuming rage – and, somewhere in the midst of all that, a production of Jekyll and Hyde.
In an uncanny case of life imitating art, a production of the classic split personality tale at The Village School in Parkhill Road, Belsize Park, was pulled mid-run as cast tensions reached breaking point last week. Actors were informed by text message that the show was cancelled “with regret” following a backstage slanging match immediately after the second night performance.
Audience members were still in their seats when the row erupted behind the stage curtain. A supporting actor had allegedly suggested Stuart Clarke, the male lead, who performs under the name Anthony Cord, should “have a look at the script”.
The argument has divided the company and actors’ union Equity has been asked to settle the dispute.
Guy Kean, who played the character of Dr Lanyon, described Mr Clarke’s decision as “ludicrous”, adding that it was “definitely Mr Hyde” responsible for axing the play.
He said: “The relevance of Jekyll and Hyde is not lost on me – this is a disgraceful way to behave. I had casting agents coming to see me in this show. It was clear once we started things were not as they should be. This has wasted a month of my life.”
But Mr Clarke, also a veteran actor, stands by his decision and is threatening legal action against those who “muddy” his name.
He said: “I’m not perfect, but I’ve always been passionate about what I do. I’ve never pulled a play before. It was the second night, it was a bit ropey in places, but people who watched it thoroughly enjoyed it.”
The “thespian bitching, backstabbing and whispering in dark corners” had got out of control, he said. After an actor confronted him in an “unfit manner” and threatened not to return, Mr Clarke decided to pull the plug, losing hundreds of pounds on the show.
“He tried to undermine my authority and become the leader of the pack and I was having none of it. I will meet fire with fire. They are trying to make me out to be some sort of ogre. I’ve always been able to separate what is on stage from what I do in life.”
Mr Clarke is hoping for a different experience when he returns to the Village School with Journey’s End in October. |
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