Cult-classic musical Young Frankenstein featured at the JRT

Published 2:59 pm Thursday, September 29, 2022

By Pam Johnson

If you’re ready for some sidesplitting laughter this Halloween season, you won’t want to miss the cult-classic musical Young Frankenstein at the Jonesborough Repertory Theatre, running October 7-23. The stage production is just as hilarious if not more so than the 1970s movie made popular by Gene Wilder and Marty Feldman.

“This musical pays tribute to Mel Brooks’ popular film,” said Liz Dollar (Frau Blucher), “and it expands the story and characters with wonderful original musical numbers. The comedy — both the physical and the wordplay — is nonstop.”

“Mel Brooks has such a unique comedy style,” added director Karen Elb. “It’s wacky, it’s satire, and it is so much fun!”

The story follows Dr. Frederick Frankenstein, who tries his best to not be associated with his notorious grandfather, the infamous Dr. Victor von Frankenstein. But as circumstances unfold, he inherits the family castle in Transylvania and ends up following in his grandfather’s footsteps by creating a “monster.” And, not surprisingly, chaos, panic, and laughter ensue.

“It’s an absolutely ridiculous show in the best of ways,” stated Lucas Schmidt (Dr. Frankenstein). “It re-tells the Frankenstein story without all the depressing murder and death.”

No, it’s not depressing. In fact, quite the opposite — and you may actually learn to love Frankenstein’s creation.

“The Monster is a joy to play,” said Andy Rogers. “Dr. Frankenstein literally creates this character, and the audience gets to see the growth and development as the ‘Monster’ (who really is no monster at all, but a being with real feelings, emotions, and connectivity) encounters life in its fullest in Transylvania.”

The JRT performed this show several years ago, but the production team feels this year will be even better.

“If anyone didn’t catch it last time, this is their opportunity to go and see it,” said Catherine Squibb (Inga). “The cast and crew are incredibly talented and aren’t afraid to have fun with the show and with the audience. We’re ready to have fun with this show and share its positive energy with Jonesborough once more!”

“We’ve all faced difficulties in the past few years, and this show gives you the opportunity to forget them, if only for a moment,” added Tiffany Matthews (Elizabeth Benning). “You will laugh until you cry as you experience everything along with the characters.”

Young Frankenstein is written by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, with music and lyrics by Mel Brooks. The show is directed by Karen Elb, choreographed by Lindy Ley, music directed by Lucas Schmidt, and stage managed/assistant directed by Kelly Cruise. Rounding out the cast are Alyssa Curtis, Becky Edmisten, Janette Gaines, Ryan Gray, Shawn Hale, Mika Hoilman, Rebekah Knisley, Rebecca Latham, Lindy Ley, Bennett Little, Hannah Love, Tabatha Oliver, Kate Palmer, Helen Pennington, Jonathan Schmidt, Bryttany Todd, Abraham Vidrio, Sergio Vidrio, and Jessica White.

The production is sponsored by the Bank of Tennessee, Thea Terluver, and Sonia King.

Tickets are $18 general admission, $16 for students and seniors. There is also a special group rate for parties of 15 or more. To purchase tickets, call the Historic Jonesborough Visitors Center at 423-753-1010 or go online to jonesboroughtheatre.com. The theatre is located at 125.5 W. Main St., Jonesborough.

Disclaimer: PG-13 rating