There’s a Light Over at the Frankenstein Place – and It’s Flashing 'Classic

Date- 19th September 2024

Theatre - Dominion Theatre

Seat - Circle E15

Rating - 4 STARS

A newly engaged couple, Brad (Connor) and Janet (Lauren), want to tell the scientist who brought them together. But during a storm, they get a flat tire and head to a nearby castle. A bizarre household invites them inside. They meet Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Jason), who invites them up to the lab to meet his little experiment, Rocky (Morgan). Overnight, everything changes for Brad and Janet; they are transformed both psychologically and sexually. The show explores sexual freedom and transformation.

The cast had an electrifying energy throughout the whole show. The ensemble worked together to bring the idea of this sci-fi house to life. The standout role for me was the narrator (Mawaan), whose role relied on the audience and their reaction. This required him to improvise when the audience responded too early. Another big part of his

improvisation is when Frank takes his clothes off at the end; during our show, his trousers got stuck, and he had to still act cool. All the musical numbers that fans of the film love take place with their over-the-top dance choreography. The ensemble really brings the energy for the dance numbers, making the comedy hit even better. Frank's presence is charismatic, with every inch of his body commanding the stage with charm and humor, bringing the show all together around him.

The show has the same pacing as the film and the same direction. The only difference, I would say, is that in the show, the ending makes more sense than in the cult classic film, in my opinion, which could be a sign that the pacing and direction are better in the musical than in the film.

Each part of the set is minimalistic but styled to evoke the emotions of classic horror and sci-fi films. All the key elements are on stage when the scene changes to help with the shift of location; this includes the ramp and lab table for the lab. The costumes are bold and campy, with each one having a link to the character's identity. The idea of the rebellion against traditional gender identity is even shown within the costumes, with the corsets, fishnets, and leather that the cast wears. In contrast, you have Brad and Janet, who are more modest. The lighting helps bring the atmosphere of dominance and sensuality to the show. Red and blue are the most used lighting for the show.

The show has a lot of audience participation with code words for the audience to call and respond. The dialogue is satirical and deep, with a lot of pop culture from the '70s. The narrator brings the show and the audience together to keep the energy high.The show is all about laughter, very melodramatic, campy, and self-aware, pushing the boundaries since the '70s.

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No welcome Mat Rating this review due to the show not passing any information to the theatre.

Dominion Theatre is step free from the steet with double doors and a nearby drop off point.