Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein as relevant as ever

Review for Encore Melbourne Theatre News. August 29, 2024

PHOTO: Anna Lise Phillips, Tony Cogin, Nick James, and Chloé Zuel

Shake and Stir’s new production of Frankenstein is not for the faint of heart, and certainly captures the true essence of Mary Shelley’s captivating original. 

First published in 1818 by the then 21-year-old Shelley, Frankenstein is an enthralling, individualistic take on the times industrial and scientific discoveries.

Shelley’s uniquely disruptive rendition of the ‘nature versus nurture, and science versus naturalist’ argument was one that took on a life of its own. A legacy that would be adapted for generations to come.

So when better to add to that growing list of adaptations than now, in the new age of Artificial Intelligence?

Shake and Stir and John Frost for Crossroads Live have carried on Shelley’s vision faithfully, encapsulating all the pivotal themes and scenes from the novel on stage. 

From the start of the night, you can expect to feel immersed in the horror and tension every step of the way.

The experience truly feels as though it is presented in four dimensional definition. From the very beginning when walking into the historic Princess Theatre, you’re greeted by a stage engulfed in billowing smoke and fog.

Claude Debussy’s Clair de Lune notions the start of the show, followed by a large ship appearing through the smog. It pushes further and further off stage as though it is going to sail over the audience. An impressive feat of set design by Josh McIntosh.

Large high-tech screens that drop from above, used to present video footage, are an impactful choice. It begs the audience to analyse the story’s crux – that investigation into the scientific unknown – by throwing new technological advancements right there in front of your face.

Another scene that stood out to me as soon as I saw it, and stuck with me the days following, was when the monster interrupts a conversation between two farmers. One discusses his hesitation toward the idea of moving on from his iron plow into the industrial age.

It draws a striking comparison to similar conversations I have had or heard surrounding AI, as it continues to grow its stronghold in our modern world. 

Reprising his role as the intense and enchanting Victor Frankenstein is Darcy Brown. He is phenomenal. Darcy brings a new level of charisma to the role while still capturing Frankenstein’s enthralling madness and hysteric search for knowledge. 

Complementing his talent, the entire cast, though small in size, carries an incredible genius throughout the production.

A notable mention for Nick James as the loveable Henry. His rendition of the character maintains gracious kindness and provides light comedic relief in an otherwise dark tale.

Chloè Zuel also deserves glowing praise for her portrayal of Elizabeth. Her character’s unmatched kindness and disregard for prejudice toward the monster has stuck with me since reading the book many years ago, and Chloè communicates this same level of charm perfectly. 

Even centuries after it was first published, Frankenstein still carries levity in discussions of science, knowledge, and nature.

The monster’s path to ruin and Frankenstein’s destructive demise provides valuable insight into the weight our discoveries carry, and how our quest for knowledge should be handled with care.

Audiences can expect to be hypnotized by this dazzling and picturesque production of Frankenstein, and engrossed by the cast’s handling of such well known characters.

You will leave rocked by the gruesome tale, and I can assure you, you will not stop thinking about it.