Review: YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN, Hope Mill Theatre
Photo credit: Mark Senior
A parody of 1930s black and white horror films, Young Frankenstein follows Dr Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced Fronkensteen, if you please), the grandson of legendary scientist Victor Frankenstein, as he becomes tempted to try and continue Victor’s unique work following his death. With a book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, following their success with The Producers, the show is funny and rather raunchy – but perhaps not as hilarious as the production of The Producers currently in London’s West End. It should be noted, however, that this reviewer isn’t hugely familiar with horror films and perhaps the show would resonate more strongly with those who know the genre well and particularly Universal’s Frankenstein.
Regardless, this is still a very enjoyable afternoon or evening out. Celebrating Hope Mill Theatre’s 10th anniversary, the production is as big and lavish as you can make something in the small venue, whilst still having a slightly rustic edge as we’ve come to enjoy from the venue’s productions.
Nick Winston directs and choreographs the production very well. He uses the space expertly, whilst never allowing anything to feel cramped on the small stage. To choreograph such an impressive ‘Puttin’ on the Ritz’ in this space is remarkable, and this number was truly show stopping! Winston could have leaned into some of the comedy and the over the top nature of the musical even further, making some of the ‘wink-wink-nudge-nudge’ moments land better. Matt Powell’s video design is excellent, providing the feel of the horror movies that the musical is parodying whilst also ensuring we always know where we are despite the minimal set. Sophie Pardon’s set works well, providing plenty of playing space for large musical numbers whilst ensuring there is enough physical set when required so the show never feels cheap. Lorraine Parry’s costumes work equally well, evoking the stereotypical characters we might expect to see in this genre of film.
Jim Arnold CDG has assembled a fabulous cast for this production. Ore Oduba, who is starting to make a name for himself as a musical theatre actor, leads the company as Dr Frederick Frankenstein. He characterises the role really well, capturing the slight madness and sinister nature of the role, whilst just generally having a great stage presence. He delivers his musical numbers expertly, belting out the money notes when required and demonstrating immaculate diction on some very tricky, wordy songs. He has strong rapport and chemistry with all of his fellow cast members.
Julia Yammanee is perfection as Inga, building a great chemistry with Oduba. Her vocals are sublime, whilst entirely understanding Mel Brooks’ style of comedy. Curtis Patrick’s Igor is delightfully endearing with a lovely friendship with Oduba’s Frankenstein. Jessica Martin’s dry comedy as Frau Blucher is wonderful – she walks the perfect line between being a bit mysterious and sinister whilst remembering this is first and foremost a comedy.
Rhiannon Chesterman proves herself a phenomenal vocalist as Elizabeth Benning. She brings to life the wealthy American fiancée perfectly. Simeon Truby gets plenty of laughs as Inspector Kemp, but his scenes as Hermit are some of the funniest in the show – especially the one in his cottage with The Monster. Pete Gallagher does a terrific job as The Monster, making him likeable whilst also a little intimidating. He delivers the more tender moments at the end of the show beautifully.
Young Frankenstein is fantastic fun and you’re sure to leave the theatre with a smile on your face having seen some fabulous performances from a very talented cast.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Jacob Bush