REVIEW: CCM'S Frankenstein
Themes of power and humanity are deeply explored through this horror-drama directed by the great Susan Felder
Nick Dear, the playwright, puts a unique spin on the Frankenstein story by telling it through the creature’s perspective. Rather than observe him through the eyes of “regular” folks, we get to see the world through his eyes.
The play's first act is about the creature’s evolution into personhood. But the second act is our chance to see his creator, Victor Frankenstein, and his obsessiveness with his work - and just how mad THAT can make someone.
Kevin Naddeo does a remarkable job as the creature. His physicality in the opening scenes is thoughtful, and he takes his time believably exploring his new body. Yet, he and director Susan Felder don’t let it linger too long should it become self-indulgent. We, the audience, get it - now let’s move forward with the story. (This is one of the many things that makes Felder a great director.)
Victor Frankenstein is played by Hunter Trammell, a character driven by cognition and science. Yet, Trammel - especially in Act Two - expresses this obsessiveness through his own brand of physicality. It’s quite good once he gets revved up.
Other standouts include Cassandra Reeves as a gender-swapped “Delacey,” the blind character who can actually see the good in this creature. Gavin Duffy’s “William,” the younger brother of Frankenstein, is entirely believable, playing a younger character. Malik Smith, who plays their father, brings a gravitas to the stage that grounds the scenes he is in.
The scenic elements, while quite creative, didn’t seem to work as well as I suspect the team had hoped during the matinee performance. In fact, at one point, an actor tripped over part of the set. I’m sure these issues were frustrating for the actors; the stage, the sound, the lighting, costumes, or props should never be a barrier to remaining in character and telling the story. That said, the costumes, wigs, projections, music and sound, and other special effects were wonderful additions to the play.
Still, sometimes less is more. This is also true with language and dialogue. Thankfully, Felder’s deft hand guided her actors through the sometimes wordy script to keep the powerful narrative fully in frame.
I can’t wait to see what she does next.
NEXT UP FOR CCM ACTING: Transmigration, a festival of new works created entirely by the students at CCM, produced this year at Liberty Exhibition Hall off campus. The event runs for three nights - March 8, 9, and 10th. Complimentary Tickets are available here.