The show combines shadow imagery, special effects and more with a live band |
Reflection
The story of Frankenstein and Halloween seem to go hand and
hand. Manual Cinema’s version uses a silent film with a narrative told by shadow imagery, acting and puppets. It is a cross between a pantomime, a Charlie Chaplin
movie, and a Film Noir movie of the 40’s
and 50’s with sharp contrast of light and dark lighting.
The show opens with the shadow imagery of the author, Mary Shelly, writing and then the shadows transform into a biography of her life leading up the birth of her novel, Frankenstein.
The film moves into the story of the creature. The animated doctor Frankenstein seems straight out of a silent film from the 1920’s. The creature, which is part puppet, makes you laugh and pulls at your heart stings. It elicited several “awes” from my car companion when Frankenstein is abused and miss understood.
Dr. Frankenstein seemed straight out of a silent film |
The narrative is surprisingly easy to follow. Understanding the story, without one spoken word, is part of the unique experience that elicits a feeling of accomplishment. There is excitement in "getting it" just like that feeling when you solve a puzzle.
The musicians are just as fun to watch |
(Grab a blanket, dinner and some popcorn and experience this gothic tale. Frankenstein runs from
September 20 to October 18, 2020. Cars can enter at 7pm. Show starts at 8pm.
For tickets go to here.)
Other Sources
https://citytheatrecompany.org/