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Review of Frankenstein at Royal & Derngate (Royal), Northampton

Over 200 years since its first publication it is remarkable to think that what is, in essence, a scientific novel such as Frankenstein is still so relevant in content today. However, as science evolves endlessly, and now with AI becoming so dominant and controversial, the difference between right and wrong, good and evil in science, and what is too inhuman is as current as ever. Tilted Wig's production, now at the end of its UK tour at Royal & Derngate and written and directed by Sean Aydon takes the original story and sets it about halfway between the first publication and modern day, around the time leading up to the Second World War.

Aydon's adaptation works really well in placing the story within this degenerating world, a place where true horror is around the corner, and veiled ideas of their (Germany's) interest in Frankenstein's work are gently developed. However, while Aydon clearly had this idea in his head and his pen when scripting this version, the political ideas do not bog down or muddy Mary Shelley's original story and are brought to the stage with respect.

At its core, from design to performance, this Frankenstein is still very much the Shelley version, albeit, Aydon gender swopping Victor Frankenstein to Victoria. However, this matters not as in the role Emily-Jane McNeill is excellent, powerful and dominant, and without any question the Frankenstein we know from our past encounters. Indeed her delivery and performance of the role reminds you of one of the classics, that of Peter Cushing.

She is supported by an excellent cast, from Brianne Surgeoner's capable assistant Francine, saved from the streets by Victoria and who is keen to learn and help her employer. Surgeoner handles the role brilliantly, with honest delivery of challenging moments with both Victoria and Richter, who challenge her worth, carefully mirroring that of The Creature itself.

As The Creature, Andy Cresswell is superb, able to bring physicality to the role and the development of life itself to the stage. There is truly some powerful stuff here from the right and wrong of his existence and to the levels of evil within. Aydon's Frankenstein really does challenge the audience as to who is the true evil between The Creature and his creator as neither comes out well from the story.

Further support in the cast comes from Lydia Whitehead's lively and charming Elizabeth, Tawana Dingembira's jocular Henry and finally, Basienka's brusk pairing of the Captain and later the inquisitive and sinister Richter.

Aside from certain changes, visually Nicky Bunch remains faithful to the original as well, with Frankenstein's laboratory very reminiscent of past Gothic versions and the original novel, particularly with the vast windows allowing the oncoming storm to be fully visible as the birth of The Creature nears.

Stephen Moynihan as movement director has worked well with Cresswell on the incredibly effective motion of The Creature from his early birth onto his later development, where his movement improves as does his intellect. Also impressive is some excellent stage combat brought to the performance by fight director Kaitlin Howard, including one brilliant dispatching of a character at the hands of The Creature.

Nicely atmospheric lighting comes from Jason Addison, which barring some slight first-night issues brings an air of mystery to the scenes, particularly during the storm. Eamonn O'Dwyer also provides some brilliant music to the show, both subtle, hardly audible and then crashingly loud at the dramatic moments.

Frankenstein is at times a slow story, especially early on in the shack, with some carefully placed pauses and silences building the brooding atmosphere. However, at its heart, Aydon's adaptation gradually becomes an absorbing and atmospheric evening at the theatre.

A creepy, quality, reimaging of a classic.

Performance reviewed: Tuesday 12th November 2024 at the Royal & Derngate (Royal), Northampton.

Frankenstein is on stage at Royal & Derngate until Saturday 16th November 2024.

For further details about the Royal & Derngate and to book tickets see their website at http://www.royalandderngate.co.uk

Photos: Robling Photography


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