The iconic comedy of Mel Brooks has been resurrected with spectacular success at the Liverpool Playhouse. A new production of the beloved musical Young Frankenstein is delivering thunderous laughter and show-stopping numbers, proving the timeless appeal of this monstrously funny tale.
A Stellar Cast Brings the Madness to Life
Leading the charge is Hadley Fraser as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein, grandson of the infamous Victor. Fraser masterfully captures the character's journey from stuffy academic to unhinged inheritor of the family obsession. His performance is a perfect blend of sharp comic timing and genuine heart, especially in his fraught dynamic with the stern Frau Blücher, a role played with scene-stealing severity by Sharon Small.
The production, directed by Bill Deamer, is a masterclass in musical comedy pacing. It honours the spirit of Brooks's 1974 film while confidently establishing its own theatrical identity. The ensemble shines brightly, with Ashley Samuels as the scene-stealing Monster and Djalenga Scott as the irresistibly seductive Inga. Their rendition of the iconic Puttin' on the Ritz number is a guaranteed showstopper, a dazzling spectacle of tap-dancing and controlled chaos.
Design and Choreography That Spark with Energy
Beyond the performances, the production is a visual and auditory feast. The set design cleverly transitions from the hallowed halls of an American lecture theatre to the gothic gloom of Transylvania. Choreography by Bill Deamer is inventive and energetic, filling the Playhouse stage with vibrant movement that complements Susan Stroman's original Broadway work.
The musical score, packed with Brooks's signature witty lyrics and hummable melodies, is delivered with gusto by the live orchestra. Songs like The Brain and Deep Love are not just comic interludes but fully realised musical moments that advance the plot and deepen character.
A Triumphant Return for a Comedy Classic
This Liverpool Playhouse revival makes a compelling case for Young Frankenstein as a staple of the musical theatre canon. It understands that the core of the show's humour isn't just in the slapstick or double entendres, but in the passionate, if deranged, commitment of its characters. The production runs until 4 January 2025, offering audiences a perfect blend of nostalgia and fresh theatrical innovation.
In an era where genuine, belly-laugh comedy can feel rare, this show is a tonic. It serves as both a hilarious homage to a classic and a triumphant demonstration of the power of live musical theatre to entertain and uplift. For fans of Mel Brooks and newcomers alike, this is an unmissable night of monster-sized fun.
