Calling all StageSiders, welcome back to another review here at StageSideUK. This time we are talking about the frightfully fun Frankenstein, presented by Tilted Wig at the Darlington Hippodrome. This production of Frankenstein is a daring and inventive take on Mary Shelley’s timeless novel, and it is so cleverly done.
Disclaimer: we were gifted free tickets to the show in exchange for an honest review.
The show skillfully balances spectacle and minimalism to deliver an experience that captivates the audience from start to finish.
The set design is just gorgeous. You are transported to a small remote cabin and then to a grand laboratory at the top of a hill. The set really helped give that gothic feel, and it was done so well! The clever use of lighting effects added depth to the narrative, enhancing the show’s visual appeal and pushed the narrative on.
I obviously have to give a special mention for the Costume and prosthetics. The use of prosthetics for the “creation” was not tacky or halloweeny, but quite minimal. The use of special effects makeup and costumes helped to convey the ‘grotesqueness’ of the creature himself.
The cast’s performances were so good! Each actor portrayed their role with commitment and energy. However, it’s worth noting that some scenes came across as a bit overly dramatic and shouty, which could have been toned down to enhance the overall experience. If the rest of the dialogue was not so shouty, when there was a reason to shout, it would have stood out.
Tilted Wig’s adaptation provides a great balance of the Gothic narrative with a more modern setting. The social commentary within the show is so well placed, it didn’t feel overly political or over done. The more minimalist approach really helped to contrast the spectacular set design for the lab. This creative blend allows the audience to immerse themselves in the emotional and intellectual depths of the story, as well as the impressive aesthetics.
Now onto The Ratings!
Entertainment:
Tilted Wig’s Frankenstein offers an engaging and entertaining experience, providing a fresh perspective on a classic tale. The bold set design and captivating performances contribute to its entertainment value. Prepare yourself to jump out your seat, laugh and maybe cry.
Value for Money:
I was pleasantly surprised to see that the cost for this show is not that high, compared to what is presented on stage. We didn’t pay for our seats, as we were invited to see the show by Darlington Hippodrome, in exchange for a review. However, the theatre does offer Lucky Hipp tickets, which allow audience members to take a chance at having some amazing seats for a fraction of the price. Offering a clear view of the stage for £15 each, I think it is a really fair deal and I would happily pay £15 to see it!
Accessibility:
The production is really loud, intense and touches on some really important but sensetive themes such as suicide, beauty, body image, disability, prejudice, discrimination, war and murder. The production features flashing lights that shine into the audience and also contains several moments where the music is really loud, doors slam and people scream.
Overall:
This show was fantastic. A great blend of gothic storytelling with deep social commentary, modern topics and contemporary aesthetics. However, the show never relies on spectacle. I think this is testament to the shows success, and also the success of the core text. The company do a great job taking a really good story, and making it into a really good play. If you want to jump out your seat, laugh and maybe cry.
Frankenstein, by Titled Wig, gets a fierce, frightening four stars
Have Your Say!
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