‘Frankenstein’; the famous, classic tale by Mary Shelley, holds as relevant today as it did when it was first written. Posed as a horror story, the novel proves as a testament to human emotion; the perils of grief and the dangers of loneliness and of being misunderstood. Midnight Circle adapts this famous story into an immersive performance at The Crypts, providing a truly intimate retelling for the audience.
Set in The Crypts in Bethnal Green, the play begins in a relaxed setting, with audiences free to mill about and explore the various rooms set up for the show. Already, the atmosphere is set as the actors perform as civilians of another time. Entering the Crypts is akin to entering a time portal.
The story is beautifully told by a myriad of talents. The cast is as follows: Victor Frankenstein played by Miles Blanch, Caroline Frankenstein played by Nadia Lamin. Elizabeth Lazenza played by Niamh-Handley-Vaughan, Robert Walton played by Nicholas Benjamin Alphonse Frankenstein played by Harry Harding, Henry Clerval played by Michael McGarry, William Frankenstein played by Piers Mackenzie
A special mention must go to Nadia Lamin, who delivers an exceptional performance as both the mother and the monster, showing the contrast between the nurturing and the neglected aspects of humanity. Furthermore, Piers Mackenzie performs a beautiful, intimate monologue in one of the smaller rooms. He creates the connection between nature and death, pondering the elements of true grief and the desperation that spills from it.
Midnight Circle’s ‘Frankenstein’ is a powerful and moving production that challenges us to empathise with the outcast and the misunderstood.
Review: Bibi Lucille