A new adaptation by Lindel Hart who also plays the Creature, this play looks more closely at the vulnerable and sensitive sides of Frankenstein’s monster. The show promises a huge amount in its opening sequence. Unfortunately this vast potential is not fulfilled as the action moves on.
The use of very simple throws with Hammer Horror-esque projections gives the set a fantastic feel and invites the audience into the desolate land of lightning and monsters.
We enter to see a wonderfully simple yet enticing set with animation projecting onto drapes surrounded by eerie music and sound effects, which give the promise of a play to remember. Hart delivers the goods and then some in his first scene – his twisted, shuddering first steps as the Creature accompanied by groans and grunts are absolutely enthralling.
From this lofty peak it is a long way for the actors to fall, and fall they do. Hart’s performance begins to lose its connection when playing opposite Colin Allen’s Victor Frankenstein and later when the Creature becomes enraged. Hart plays the Creature expertly when in less heightened emotional states. He truly is a joy to watch portraying this little seen version of the Monster – a naïve innocent who, abandoned, is finding his way in the world. But when the Creature’s anger flares while confronting his creator, Hart fails to reach the level of acting we now expect from him.
Colin Allen plays Victor Frankenstein, Mr. DeLacey and William with fluctuating levels of skill. At his best he completely summons forth the obsessed scientist and embodies Victor Frankenstein gloriously. But during his lesser moments, he loses any connection with his fellow cast and falls into the trap of overacting. His Mr Delacey is excellent, and his work with Hart in the scene is a touching joy to behold.
The set design is stunning. The use of very simple throws with Hammer Horror-esque projections gives the set a fantastic feel and invites the audience into the desolate land of lightning and monsters. One hopes that the actors settle into the roles and find the spark: this could be a stunning production.
