This October, Illinois State University’s School of Theatre and Dance is jumping headfirst into the Halloween spirit with two ghoulish productions: Frankenstein and The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy.
The month starts off with the character of Frankenstein, who has become a classic staple of Halloween. Instead of the familiar large green monster, this production of Frankenstein, adapted for the stage by Alexander Utz and directed by M.F.A. directing candidate John McCall, returns to Mary Shelley’s original 19th century novel.
Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus is considered the first science fiction novel, creating the genre, but at its core are classic gothic elements: mysterious and suspenseful atmospheres, gloomy weather, the medieval aesthetics of an old castle or mansion, monsters, romance, anti-heroes, heightened emotions, and a fascination with death to name only a few.
Following right after is The Addams Family: A New Musical Comedy. From experiments with electricity to the imposing figure of Lurch, The Addams Family is filled with references to modern Frankenstein lore. This kooky family is made up of lovers of all things mysterious and spooky, so it is no wonder that they are masters of the gothic aesthetic.
However, while Frankenstein weaves a tragic tale in the classic gothic style, this production of The Addams Family, directed by faculty members Maggie Marlin-Hess and Matthew Vala, takes a comedic and musical approach to the genre. With a book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice and music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa, the musical portrays gothic motifs with satire and absurdity.
Join the School of Theatre and Dance at the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts to celebrate this Halloween season throughout the month of October with these hauntingly delightful productions.
Frankenstein will be performed in the Westhoff Theatre on October 6, 7, and 11-14 at 7:30 p.m., as well as on October 8 at 2 p.m. The Addams Family will be performed at the Center for the Performing Arts on October 27, 28, and November 1-4 at 7:30 p.m., as well as on October 29 and November 5 at 2 p.m.
Tickets can be purchased in person at the Center for the Performing Arts Box Office on the campus of Illinois State University, by calling (309) 438-2535, or online.
If you need an accommodation to fully participate in this program, please contact the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts Box Office at (309) 438-2535. Please allow sufficient time to arrange the accommodation.
