Frankenstein

Directed by John Coombe 

In the summer of 1816, Mary Shelley was challenged by Lord Byron to write a ghost story the result of which was Frankenstein.  In 2009 Ambleside Players member, John Coombe, set himself the challenge of directing the Timm J Kelly play of the same name. His aim was to create an atmosphere which would enable the audience to move away from any stereotypical preconceptions.

Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant young scientist, returns to his Swiss chateau to escape a terrible pursuer. No one can shake free the dark secret that terrifies him: not his mother, nor his fiancee, nor his best friend. Even the pleading of a gypsy girl accused of murdering Victor's younger brother falls on deaf ears, for Victor has brought into being a creature made from pieces of the dead. The creature tracks Victor to his sanctuary to demand a bride to share its loneliness. Against his better judgement, Victor agrees and soon the household is invaded by murder, despair and terror!

The Players production of Kelly's thoughtful version of the classic tale was reported as thought provoking and highly entertaining.