Illinois State University’s School of Theatre and Dance will produce Alexander Utz’s stage adaptation of Frankenstein directed by M.F.A. directing student, John McCall Jr. The performances will take place in Westhoff Theatre on October 6 and 7 at 7:30 p.m., October 8 at 2 p.m., and October 11-14 at 7:30 p.m.
Frankenstein, adapted from Mary Shelley’s 1818 gothic horror novel, explores what happens when ambitious humans break the universe’s natural order. The story follows Victor Frankenstein, an intelligent university student, who uses his knowledge of science and anatomy to bring to life a creature made of once-dead body parts. Terrified by his own creation, Victor flees just as the creature comes to life. So, confused and lonely, the creature seeks out his maker in order to strike a deal with him.
Mary Shelley, Percy Bysshe Shelley, Lord Byron, Claire Clairmont, and Dr. John Polidori—all real people who lived in the 19h century—also make appearances as characters in this play. In Utz’s adaptation, the famous story contest between Mary and her friends is interwoven with Victor’s own tale. Seeing Mary as a character in the play reminds us that the “Mother of Science Fiction” was just a 19 year-old girl who, despite what society demanded, found a way to express herself through her storytelling.
Tickets for Frankenstein 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. The performance run time is two hours including one intermission. Learn more about the show by visiting the production website.
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.
