Ratings ★★★★☆
Words by Jordan Newton, Photographs by Joel Devereux
With the spooky season approaching, the Shake & Stir Theatre Co have created a monster of an adaption of Mary Shelley's classic horror novel, Frankenstein (The Modern Prometheus). It was Sydney's turn for a fright following a successful limited run in Melbourne last month.
The 2 hour production remains faithful to the 1818 novel about the troubled Victor Frankenstein and his attempt on playing God and his terrifying miracle of Science. Certain characters and scenes from the book were cut off to keep the essential parts of the story stitched together.
Along with physical set pieces and props, the set design has the most impressive production technology with its use on Stonehenge like projection panels providing the changing backdrops and a rotating stage floor as seen in other productions like Hamilton. Together they set the physical and mental stage of every chapter in the story. From the peaceful beginnings in Geneva to the dark terrors of Frankenstein's laboratory with the nightmares that plague his mind. The panels express them all.
The cast of 6 are kept on their toes with countless costume changes, sometimes playing multiple characters in 1 scene.
Starring
Darcy Brown as Victor Frankenstein
Jeremiah Wray as The Monster
Tony Cogin as Alphonse Frankenstein and Blind man DeLacey
Nick James as Henry Clerval, Captain Robert Walton and Felix DeLacey
Anna Lise Phillips as Justine Mortiz and Agatha DeLacey
Chloè Zeul as Elizabeth Lavenza and William Frankenstein
Traditional, the majority of the story is told through the words of Victor Frankenstein as he retells the reason behind his misery and disastrous life. A new addition to this is the use of the cast tell the story as if the victims of Victor's misdeeds are haunting the back of his brain and the narrative. Somewhat of a Shakespearian ghost approach as Victor carries with him throughout the play.
The standout performance was the Creature himself, played by Jeremiah Wray. He strips away the gimmick and neck bolts of the iconic Boris Karloff portrayal and shows what it means to be born again while being labelled "a monster" to society. From his first scenes, he expresses the physicality of basic human development (mostly seen in toddlers, people with disabilities and rehabilitation for stroke victims). It makes you think of all the human functions we take for granted (learning to crawl, walk, run, speak and read). As story progresses, so does the Monster.
Darcy Brown's portrayal Victor Frankenstein is an insight into the thoughts of the madman while showing a quirky side to the character. Chloè Zeul's Elizabeth brings fiery attitude towards Frankenstein's disturbed heart and compassion towards the Monster's appearance. Nick James provides the humorous supportive companion in Henry Clerval and the adventure seeking Captain Robert Walton. Tony Cogin's 35 years of experience provides comfort towards the younger cast, playing father Frankenstein and the exiled DeLacey. A favourite scene of mine was when DeLacey meets the monster. The stage immediately turned pitch black when the monster entered the room which was loosely dimmed by a candle to show the encounter through the eyes of a blind man. Anna Lise Phillips encapsulates the girl of merit as Justine Moritz and innocence of Agatha DeLacey.
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein joins a long line of classic horror stories that have been adapted to the stage. Frankenstein is a must see, whether you're a Monster mash fan, Shelley fanatic or looking for something to see during the Halloween season. Catch it before it returns to the grave on October 13th.
Mary Shelley's Frankenstein
Theatre Royal Sydney, 108 King Street, Sydney
Season: 28 September – 13 October 2024
Information and Bookings: www.frankensteinlive.com.au
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