Dark Comedy and Mayhem: A Look into Chemical Imbalance

The play Chemical Imbalance is a quick-witted, comedic take on the classic Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde story, about the whimsical aftermath of a science experiment gone wrong. Dr Jekyll, the play’s main character, develops a potion that has the power to separate a person’s good and evil. However, after Dr. Jekyll drinks the potion, his mischievous and villainous alter ego, named Hyde, emerges. The play explores the absurd chaos that ensues following this transformation. Chemical Imbalance is a farce, meaning that it uses foolishness and horseplay to tell its story. The play also features circumstances that are hysterically improbable; there is one scene where the clueless love interest goes on a rant, not realizing the person she’s talking to is fighting a monster behind her. Through stage fighting and eccentric characters, Chemical Imbalance provides a fresh and entertaining spin on the original story.

Petra J. ‘26 has participated in Trevor’s theater productions for three years. This year, she is playing the role of Rosamunda Dewthistle, the love interest of Dr. Jekyll. She notes that participating in the play is “really stressful, but it’s worth it.” Petra also shared that through participation in Trevor’s drama productions, she has made friendships across all grades. She values these relationships immensely, and told me that she couldn’t imagine not being as close as she is with these fellow actors.

Students may recall receiving emails from Mr Smith, Trevor’s drama teacher, for several years about Chemical Imbalance being that year’s fall play. Unfortunately, until this year, the Drama department hadn’t had enough volunteers to have a full cast. However, this year has welcomed countless new participants into the program. Students, parents, and teachers alike have found it incredibly refreshing to see this surge in participation in Trevor’s theater department.

Community members interested in seeing Chemical Imbalance attended the shows on the East Campus in the Sally A. Rocker Auditorium. There was be a performance for the Upper School during Community Time (2:25 PM) on November 4th, and an open dress rehearsal on November 5th at 4:15 PM. Evening showtimes for Chemical Imbalance were at 7 PM on November 6th, 7th, and 8th.