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The musical revolves around Dr Frederick Frankenstein (played by Ore Oduba), grandson of the notorious scientist who grimly reanimated the dead. A respected and brilliant scientist, he leaves his fiancée (Rhiannon Chesterman) in New York to help settle his grandfather’s estate; however, this plan quickly goes hilariously awry.
Young Frankenstein at Hope Mill Theatre
SIMEON TRUBY AND FULL ENSEMBLE TAKEN BY MARK SENIOR
Upon arriving in Transylvania, he is introduced to Igor (Curtis Patrick), his hunchback henchman, Inga (Julie Yammanee), a beautiful young lab assistant, and Frau Blucher (Jessica Martin), a stern figure from his grandfather’s infamous past. Quickly, the plan goes from settling the estate to continuing on these dreary and precarious experiments, with a slew of ludicrously funny moments along the way.
Young Frankenstein is a musical, so it’s undeniable from the show’s credits that all the musical numbers are incredibly memorable and are performed to a very high technical standard, highlighting the raw talent of the cast.
The comedic elements are interwoven seamlessly throughout, with rarely any of the humour feeling tonally foreign or falling flat. Every performer rose to the occasion and gave a perfectly executed, energetic performance, with no holds barred, with their commitment to every aspect of the production.
An incredible physical comedy that really shines
ORE ODUBA AND ENSEMBLE TAKEN BY MARK SENIOR.jpg
However, the physical comedy is where the show’s comedy really shines. These are the parts that had me with my head in my hands laughing -and even if you are not a typical fan of musicals or musical comedy, the sheer absurdity of these moments, and the over-the-top commitment of the actors, make the entire performance a hilarious visual spectacle, as well as a musical treat. Curtis Patrick’s performance as Igor alone would be enough to crack up even the most jaded theatre-goer, who is unrelentingly funny throughout.
Easily the most entertaining aspect is the performances and enthusiasm of the cast, who bring the energy and passion of a Broadway show to the small Hope Mill stage. On the night, you could palpably feel their ardour, and this carried over to the sentiments and energy of the audience, their enjoyment reflected with a respectable standing ovation at the end of the performance.
“An astouding display of talent”
The display of talent from each of the performers is incredible, from the ensemble and the main characters alike – the choreography makes expert use of the stage, with not a movement wasted from anyone, and is a testament to the blood, sweat and tears put into this musical by the whole team at Hope Mill Theatre and beyond.
PETE GALLAGHER AND RHIANNON CHESTERMAN TAKEN BY MARK SENIOR
The lighting, sound, and set design also blew me away with the ingenuity and prowess of how these elements were utilised. The transitional aspects of the play were seamless, as well as being a sensory delight, keeping the audience gripped through every moment of the production.
At its core, Young Frankenstein is a comedy, and in this aspect, it excels. The jokes are punchy and witty, catering to a full range of comedic penchants. If you’re a fan of musical comedy or just having a good laugh, then you simply cannot miss out on Young Frankenstein.
Tickets for Young Frankenstein at Hope Mill Theatre
Young Frankenstein is on at the Hope Mill Theatre until 30th November, and tickets can be purchased here
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