A few weeks ago, us 18-25 YEP Actors participated in intensive rehearsals for our upcoming Jekyll & Hyde performances. These were our very first rehearsals and I’m writing to give you an insight into what it was like.

We’re being directed by the wonderful Jen Tan. In her words, she’s really excited to work with us on this play.

Jen masterfully initiated and guided us through our first intensive rehearsals. She expertly immersed us in the world we’re working in, guiding us through our scenes while allowing room for actor interpretation, as well as guiding us through collaborative research. She excelled at reading the room as well; checking in with us, playing games with us, giving us plenty of comfort breaks, and answering any questions we had.

I also spoke to Martha Jamieson, our assistant director, and she said that she’s really excited to be delving into the world of this play with us.

Martha’s presence as an assistant within our group has been both radiant and joyful. Though she isn’t acting with us, she never shied away from participating alongside us during our workshops leading up to our initiation into Jekyll & Hyde, and she is always very warm and approachable.

I asked some of my fellow actors for their thoughts and feelings on anything to do with Jekyll & Hyde, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. One actor said, “I’m feeling ready, I’m feeling energetic, good, happy, just all of the positive feelings into one and I’m ready to work!”. Another said, “I’m looking forward to the show, but I’m most intrigued by how the ensemble stuff is going to work, and how the smaller parts are going to be integrated into the play”.

My own sentiment is that I’m elated to have the opportunity to work on a show like this with so many amazing actors, directors, stage managers, producers and more, and I’m very excited to see how it will develop. I will continue to document the rehearsal journey and continue to speak to as many people as possible – both more of my fellow actors and those who work behind the scenes. Until then, please wish us all a smooth process, and I wish you all well.

Don’t miss YEP: Jekyll & Hyde at the Everyman from Thu 2 – Sat 4 Jul