March 1, 2012

National Theater Frankenstein Encores


The UK’s National Theater has released a new trailer announcing encore screenings of its triumphant 2011 production of Frankenstein, written by Nick Dear and directed by Danny Boyle.

Despite universal acclaim, a stack of important awards and petitions by fans, the National has no plans to produce a DVD of the play, theater being, by definition, an ephemeral experience. Not to mention complex issues of performance rights. Still, this remarkable Frankenstein will be coming ‘round again this summer in a “limited season” of screenings through the NT Live circuit of movie houses around the world.

If you’ve seen this production, I suspect you might want to see it again, as I will. If you haven’t seen it, I urge you to do so. It’s as perfect a production of Frankenstein as anyone can hope for, brilliantly acted by Benedict Cumberbatch and Jonny Lee Miller, switching parts on alternate evenings as Victor Frankenstein and his Creature. There are many moments that have stuck indelibly with me, from the athletics of the creation scene under a canopy of over 3000 light bulbs, through the scenes with the blind DeLacey, Frankenstein haunted by little William’s ghost, the Creature’s harrowing encounter with Elizabeth, and a profoundly moving arctic finale. Best of all was a brief, poignant sequence where the Creature dances with his dream Bride.

Frankenstein will be screening this summer, beginning in June. The National Theatre’s Frankenstein page has a link to its NT Live venues. Whether all the venues listed will carry the encore performances is not specified. You might want to check with your local theater.


Related:
The National Theatre’s Frankenstein
The Reviews are In
Frankenstein Goes Global

1 comment:

Lina Thomlinson said...

I saw it last year but just read this news yesterday on their site. I'm hoping it will be rebroadcast near me so I can see it again. It's definitely one of those productions that sticks with you.