Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein doesn’t just attach the author’s name as a way to differentiate it from other adaptations of this classic horror tale. Featuring Mary as the lead character, the play explores Mary’s struggles with writing the horror, her relationship to the characters and her emotions as the story progresses.
Performed on a mostly bare stage, backed with a stitched together “Frankenstein style” scrim, properties are rolled on to create complex settings - with the laboratory benches particularly well appointed. Aliya Mather’s costumes are attractive, but some disrepair was evident, and costumes didn’t always match the descriptions - for instance the Monster talks about being naked and unshod, and while I don’t expect an actor to actually appear nude, perhaps some of that situation could have been suggested.
Mary Del Casale plays the central role of Mary Shelley. Don’t worry about the nepo-casting, she anchors the show beautifully and performs very well, although I am a little worried that she may wear out her voice and some more light and shade could be used.
Aaron Wilkes plays the other titular role, an intense and serious young man obsessed with his task. Aaron applies himself fully to the role. Zack Inglis plays The Monster, imbuing him with a depth of emotion and true humanity.
The remainder of the cast play multiple characters, a true ensemble that slip in and out of characters quickly, working well as a team. Tomas Kinshela is impressive as Henry, creating a layered persona, Kate Taunton Morgan was lovely as love interest Elizabeth, Jason Pearce was at his strongest as blind family-man Peter and Ashlee DeCosta won sympathy as the ill-fated Justine. Eleanor Mulder is lovely in two different maternal roles, Sheridan Spencer gender flipped nicely to play young William, while Osman Bandey nicely juggled three diverse roles.
I was expecting a stronger crowd on Opening Night, as Wanneroo’s choice to open on a Thursday meant that they opened the night before a half-dozen competing shows.
This is an interesting production with a hard-working ensemble that deserves a bigger audience.
Kimberley Shaw
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