The Creature Walks Among Us

Frankenstein – Remy Bumppo Theatre 

 

In this, the second recent Chicago production of a theatrical adaptation of Mary Shelley’s famous novel, we have a gorgeously produced drama that’s very true to the original source. Honoring the 200th anniversary of the novel’s publication, this dramatic interpretation was adapted by talented English playwright, Nick Dear. He does credit to Shelley’s early nineteenth century horror novel, allowing the story, like the Creature, to burst on stage with life. 

Frightened and naked to the world, Victor Frankenstein’s creation opens the production trying to break from a stretchy, placenta-like shroud. Desperately he jabs and thrusts his way from within his enclosure, finally writhing around Joe Schermoly’s stark, black-and-white setting and bathed in eerie atmosphere, courtesy of Mike Durst’s lighting design and Christopher Kriz’s pulsating sound and original, dramatic music. This intense, creatively imaginative opening sets the tone for a gorgeous interpretation of one literature’s most horrifying, captivating and contemplative stories of all time.

In yet another creative move, Director and Remy Bumppo artistic staff member, Ian Frank, employed some inventive casting. He chose Producing Artistic Director, talented actor, fight choreographer and multi-Jeff Award nominee, Nick Sandys to play both the Creature and Victor Frankenstein. But, to make things even more interesting, he’s also cast Core Remy Bumppo Ensemble member, Greg Matthew Anderson, to alternate in these roles. At the press opening performance, Sandys played the Creature while Anderson portrayed the power-obsessed Victor Frankenstein.

In Nick Dear’s absorbing, one-act play, the Creature becomes the center of the story. The director focuses the theme of his production on how people are complicit in the creation of the monsters that surround us. He cites, as examples, the thousands of bullies, shooters, bigots and bullheaded authoritarians who roam our world today. Although Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel is celebrated as a horror story, it’s also one of the first published works of science fiction. It’s a tale filled with guilt, grief and guile. There’s also an enormous degree of insurmountable ego in the character of Frankenstein, while his creature is seen as a victim, an innocent being, tortured by those around him. All he wants is what all humans desire: food, shelter, warmth and love. What the Creature finds, however, provides the real horror of this story.

Both leading actors are mesmerizing in their roles. Audiences will find themselves wanting to return again to see these two actors alternate in these roles. Sandys is always topnotch, a gifted actor at the apex of his craft, playing the Creature. His athletic physicality, mournful cries and agonizing words and expressions haunt the theatergoer long after the final curtain. As Victor Frankenstein, Anderson captivates with his wild-eyed looks and obstinate obedience to power. He’s a young scientist obsessed with the undeniable skill his research and knowledge have provided. He can see nothing else but that he’s become God in his ability to both create and destroy life. Both actors are incredible and should anticipate standing ovations at every performance.

The supporting cast is terrific, with each actor playing several roles. Frank Nall is excellent as De Lacey, the blind, older Frenchman, who befriends the Creature, teaching him how to speak and read. Nall also is very good as Victor’s father, Monsieur Frankenstein. Eliza Stoughton meets the challenges of playing both Elizabeth and the Creature’s Bride. Zachary Scott Fewkes is very good in the role of William, Victor’s younger brother. (The role is played by Ben Miller at alternate performances). The remaining ensemble actors are strong, reliable and help to make this story complete. They include Claire Alpern, Jyreika Guest, Steve Lords, Jose Nateras and Michael Turrentine. 

This is truly a must-see production, especially arriving so close to Halloween. Ian Frank’s exquisite, expressionistic interpretation features award-worthy performances by two of Chicago’s leading actors who alternate playing the main roles. The production is a feast for the senses, not only sporting incredible scenic, lighting and sound designs, but accented by Kristy Leigh Hall’s wonderful period costumes. If this show doesn’t move you to tears and haunt your dreams, consider consulting a doctor to check your pulse. You may not be alive.

Highly Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas      

 

Presented October 11-November 17 by Remy Bumppo Theatre Company at Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont Ave., Chicago.

Tickets are available at the box office, by calling 773-975-8150 or by going to www.RemyBumppo.org.

Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com.