Frankenstein

Mary Shelley`s well known horror story dramatised for the stage by Tim Kelly was  presented on a small stage with great expertise by the Directors who had taken over the production at very short notice. The one set, a typical Victorian lounge, had been designed with great attention to detail and worked efficiently for the actors to move around. The lighting was particularly effective adding to the atmosphere of horror and the costumes were delightful.  The cast of very accomplished players obviously enjoyed the dramatic content of the play even though it was rather wordy.  The Creature (Ian Hagues) presented a chilling performance without the use of histrionics. Frau Frankenstein (Brenda Anderson) gave a sympathetic and tender performance as she tried to understand what was happening to her son (Gavin Jones) who, together with his friend Henry (Ian Chisem), kept the impetus of the play moving. Elizabeth the new bride (Cassandra McClintock) had an aura of serenity and sympathy for her afflicted  husband. Any comedy in the play was well provided by Ernst, the Inspector (Colin Smith) and Sophie, the Housekeeper (Doreen Drifield). The small cameo part of Justine (Kathryn Leigh, who also did great work with the makeup) was played with great panache. All in all, a good performance from all the cast and the Production Team of an unusual and difficult play.

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