It has been a real pleasure the last few years seeing some of the big broadway comedies come to Stage West. Recent presentations of shows like Avenue Q and Monty Python’s Spamalot brought new audiences to the theatre and have been highlights of recent seasons.
While Mel Brook’s Young Frankenstein, on stage until June 26th, doesn’t have the same name recognition as the previously listed shows, this laugh a minute over the top production is a must see. Whether a regular patron or someone who loved the previous comedies, there is something for everyone.
Based on the 1974 film starring Gene Wilder, the stage musical opened on Broadway in 2007. It is the story of Dr. Frankenstein (Kevin Dennis) arriving in Transylvania after the death of his Grandfather Victor, the creator of the monster that terrorized a village. The doctor meets hunchback Igor (a brilliant portrayal by Greg Pember) and the mysterious Frau Blucher (Jayne Lewis) – who try to convince him to join the family business. What unfolds is a typical story – boy meets lab sexy lab assistant, boy and girl make a giant green corpse come to life, boy’s fiancé shows up unexpectedly, and everyone sings Puttin On the Ritz.
It is a ridiculously fun show, and part of why it works so well is that it is evident that the large cast of 19 is having an absolute blast. Their enthusiasm is infectious. They take some lines and songs that should be eye-roll inducing but deliver them in a way that delivers big laughs instead. There are a number of Stage West regulars in the show such as Adam Stevenson – a chameleon whose talents have been shown in multiple Stage West music reviews as the Monster and Kevin Rothery in multiple roles.
It’s a risqué show – an elaborate and hilarious number Roll In The Hay had the audience in stitches while Please Don’t Touch Me has an entire verse about boobs. It’s part burlesque show, part homage to the musical genre, part slapstick comedy. It all works and is a wonderful evening. You do not have to have seen the movie to love the play. $10 from every ticket sold goes to Fort. McMurray relief. There are a number of summer promos on as well, so take advantage, support a good cause and have a great meal and lots of laughs with Young Frankenstein.
