Review: FRANKENSTEIN, Greenwich Theatre - British Youth Music Theatre
Photo credit: Charlie Flint
Ah Frankenstein - Mary Shelley's classic literary masterpiece has been adapted many a time in TV, film, theatre and everything in between. However, at Greenwich Theatre, something slightly more peculiar is occurring. A musical adaptation, and not just any musical adaptation, but one that was workshopped over just two weeks by a young company. Intriguing at the very least.
Frankenstein is the gothic tragedy about a man and his monster. Where science combines with alchemy to go where no man has dared go before. The romantic-era novel has seen an abundace of adaptations yet still remains, despite being centuries old, a common go-to for creatives the world over.
The company behind this production is British Youth Music Theatre. The actors for this production are performers between 14 and 19 years old. The creative team consists of adults with some of the members in mentorship roles. A combination that mostly works well on stage, the majority of the cast rise to the occasion and give rousing, memorable performances. The biggest positive of the show, however, is the creative side.
The young company bring confidence, energy and skill to the show. The role of Victor Frankenstein is shared with three actors but Eleni Chivers is given most of the heavy lifting. A composed performance that is played appropriately; troubled glances, rigid posture and a genius' swagger all combine to bring the troubled scientist to life. Also brought to life, in more ways than one, is the Creature, portrayed by Freddie Summers, in a role that can easily lean into melodrama but instead, the representation is restrained and tasteful. The chorus are brilliant. Moving as one to breathe and become the Creature. Their powerful voices blending and giving the show a large-scale feel. All whilst seamlessly slotting in to portray the supporting characters.
An original score, fantastic lighting plus simple, effective staging all combine to create a fresh, clean version of Frankenstein. The set is minimal, with the actors moving chairs to resemble bridges, archways and rooms works tremendously to mirror the tone of the production, also utilising the large company to maximise their moments on stage.
Danny Vavrečka's lighting design perfectly encapsulates the tone of the piece. Harsh white lighting evokes a sense of dread, the natural tones represent the family life of Victor Frankenstein, and the darker reds and purples help the monster leave its mark. The strobe effects during the action sequences evoke panic and confusion, whilst the spotlights during solos are necessary to bring out the pain of the performers.
Adding songs to an already beloved story could have gone either way, however, most of the additional music works in this productions favour. What they get right is the concise nature of each song - nothing overstays its welcome and in the most part, adds to the sequences on stage. Clearly inspired by Stephen Sondheim, in particular Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, Jimmy Jewell (composer and arranger) and Nick Stimson (lyricist) conjured a soundscape to work in harmony with Shelley's text.
Employing an element of simple flair is set and costume designer Steph Nicholls, her set being threadbare yet effective. The white stage and circular centre brings all your attention to the area. A circular frame hanging above the stage is all that is needed, letting the performers instead bring the tale to life. The black and white costumes anchor the gothic theming with subtle nods to the monster with patchwork trousers and stitched together leather jackets. A nuanced approach that really hits the mark.
An ambitious musical with wonderful production, intelligent lighting and solid performances. The British Youth Music Theatre company sprinkle sparks of humanity to a monstrous story, truly bringing Frankenstein alive.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: James Springthorpe
Frankenstein plays at London’s Greenwich Theatre until 30 Aug, with further info here.
