FRANKENSTEIN
A stylish and spectacular production of FRANKENSTEIN is currently running at the Theatre Royal Sydney. Mary Shelley started writing her famed novel when she was just an eighteen year old teenager and significantly Frankenstein’s creature has been described as someone who feels similarly to many teenagers, in that they do not belong in their family or society. Teenagers can feel they were brought to this world by people that do not care for them and throw them into a world of pain and suffering, and tears and hunger. It captures the passionate and forthright nature of a teenager and the conflicts arising from still having an underdeveloped brain.
There are many other interpretations and analyses of the ground-breaking novel such as the creatures fear of prejudice and his consequent violent reaction, or the creatures questioning of his creator, Victor Frankenstein, as to why does he exist and his purpose. It is also seen as the first ever science fiction novel and a loving and brilliant blend of the romantic and the gothic. There is also a theme about consequences running through the narrative. The consequences of creating something, in this case a hideous looking creature, and then letting it out into the world with no restraints placed upon it. More modern parallels could be combustion engines, atomic energy, social media and artificial intelligence.
These readings of FRANKENSTEIN can all be gathered and understood from this glamorous performance, adapted and produced by Shake & Stir Theatre Co. The sets and video installations are spectacular and likewise the soundscape, lighting and other special effects are a joy to the senses. Prior to the opening scene a swirling fog was creating a delightful and mesmerising attraction, enhanced by recordings of sublime piano such as Bach’s Goldberg Variations and similar pieces.
The performers were given rousing applause by the enthusiastic audience. Cast members are Darcy Brown, Jeremiah Wray, Chloé Zuel, Anna Lise Phillips, Tony Cogin and Nick James, with some actors playing multiple roles. Special mention to Lighting Designer Trent Suidgeest, Sound Designer & Composer Guy Webster and Video Designer Craig Wilkinson. They were ably supported by Adaptor Nelle Lee, Director Nick Skubij, Creative Producer Ross Balbuziente, Designer Josh McIntosh, Movement & Fight Director Nigel Poulton and Creative Makeup Design Steven Boyle.
Frankenstein is playing at Theatre Royal Sydney until 13th October
Photo image credit is Joel Devereux
