While the audience murmurs restlessly, the lights flicker—signaling the show is about to begin. People continue their conversations until the orchestra starts to play. Young Frankenstein is about to start.
Typical shows that come through Mem Aud have the touring cast on stage — aka the “B list” of actors. Such shows like Spring Awakening and The Drowsy Chaperone leave many wondering if the actors just learned their lines and choreography before the show. However, the dance moves in Frankenstein could leave any dance major envious of the twists and turns these actors were able to do.
Set in the 1930s, Frederick Frankenstein has just learned of his grandfather’s death and must travel to Transylvania to set his affairs in order. While attempting to get in and out of this foreign land quickly, Frankenstein is swept up in keeping the family legacy alive with pressures from his two assistants, Inga and Igor (read: Eye-gor). Along the way, Frankenstein is caught up among living up to his name, a love triangle and a monster running loose.
With contrasting sets from the most elaborate props and backdrops to stark, black curtains, the actors proved their skills and wowed the audience with the snarky one-liners, slapstick gestures and sexual innuendos. This troupe showed they weren’t the “B list” theater-goers were expecting.
The expectations the audience had left completely when meeting Igor. Flailing gestures, constant singing and being the comedic relief, Igor had to be the funniest character in the whole show. Not only this, but with a high-pitched voice and flamboyant movements, there were allusions throughout the show that Igor was gay. When Igor came on stage, there was instant laughter.
The laughter wasn’t as strong when there were obvious mistakes, however. Continuous struggle with props (did you se how long it took for them to put a giant monster head up?), wrongly guided spotlights and microphone malfunctions had the laughter die down to quiet giggles.
Despite all the setbacks, Frankenstein was just the comedic relief needed to fill the Monday night blues. But be forewarned, if you bring younger children along, you may have to explain what “Deeper Love” is. Oh, and don’t forget to explain why Inga constantly stares at Frankenstein’s crotch. Woof.