Dr. Jekyll and his demented alter ego, Mr. Hyde, are Chicago-bound, sans Frank Wildhorn's music and Robert Cuccioli. Lifeline Theatre is staging Strange Case: Jekyll & Hyde, an adaptation of the Robert Louis Stevenson classic by ensemble member Steve Totland. Directed by Ann Boyd, Strange Case utilizes puppets and stylized movement. Previews began Feb. 26 for an opening March 3 and a run through May 23.

Boyd helmed Lifeline's production of The Overcoat last season. Totland appeared in that production and more than 45 others with Lifeline, of which he is a founding member. The cast consists of Thad Anzur, Jeff Christian, Brooks Darrah, Eric Johnson, Todd Kiech, and Kelly VanKirk. The design team is Nikita Tkachuk (scenic), Aga Kunska (lights), Judith Lundber (costumes), Roderick Peeples (sound), and Cathy McCullough (puppets).

Director Boyd said in a statement, "It's fascinating to explore this 100 year old story, which has become so imbedded in our cultural heritage."

For tickets to Strange Case, call (773) 761-4477. Upcoming shows at Lifeline include The Mother Lode, developed by Chicago's popular troupe, "Sweat Girls." Lifeline artistic director Dorothy Milne directs this groupe of eight monologues, June 11-July 17. The company's "KidSeries" continues Bunnicula through May 30, and then opens Simple Jim & His Five Fabulous Friends June 26. Author Eric Lane Barnes also penned last season's Mike Mulligan and his Steam Shovel.

-- by Diane Snyder and David Lefkowitz