Frankenstein
Synopsis
In this retelling of Frankenstein, a mysterious laboratory, a dark cemetery and a university classroom provide the setting for Victor Frankenstein and his university friends, students who dabble in the mystical science of regeneration. Victor's fiancé, Elizabeth, and best friend, Henry, bring body parts from the cemetery for his experiments. But Victor's work backfires when he brings to life a superhuman, monstrous creation he cannot control. Huge and haunted by memories of a dark past, the Creature breaks out of the laboratory. The Creature is met with horror from everyone he meets except for Victor's blind professor, who feels sympathy for the Creature "of the earth" and helps him with both language and memory. The Professor also speaks of the importance of love and companionship, and the Creature realizes that this is something Victor has and he is denied. The Creature follows Henry's beautiful girlfriend, Justine, to the cemetery and asks her to be his love, his companion. When she resists him, he holds her so tightly she dies. The Creature brings her body to Victor to reanimate—to make him a bride. Victor refuses until the Creature threatens to take Elizabeth from him on their wedding night. Victor begins to do the Creature's bidding. Elizabeth tries to stop the terror by facing the Creature and even offering to be his bride if Victor might be spared. But the final confrontation leaves Elizabeth dead, the Creature gone and Victor alone.
Assistant Director
I was given the opportunity to assistant direct this play as part of my senior practicum. Getting to AD—especially in a community theater setting—was an exceptional experience that taught me a great deal about the full scope of the production process and what I might expect in the future.
As a designer, I’m usually involved from only one angle, but stepping into this role allowed me to see the production as a complete, interconnected whole. From auditions all the way through closing, it was a nonstop learning curve that I’m excited to hopefully take on again in the future. I learned how to navigate conflicts, collaborate with and guide other designers, support actors, and witness firsthand the many challenges and fine details that bring a community theater production to life.
Sound Designer
For this story I was challenged with underscoring the entire play with hard rock or metal music. I have played with underscoring certain scenes before, but nothing to the extent of the entire play. It was a fun challenge that I am looking forward to going further with in the future.
Being able to work closely with this play has helped me pick up on thematic shifts and really notice the battles the characters have with others and within themselves. This helped create the movements and moments within the music you hear throughout.