Frankenstein author Mary is brought to life
A special production to celebrate the life of the novelist behind Frankenstein will take place at the Macrobert.
The Occasion Theatre company has announced their new show exploring the life of Mary Shelley will come to town as part of a Scottish tour organised to mark 200 years since the novel’s publication.
The production entitled The Monster and Mary Shelley will be performed at the Macrobert on Thursday, April 26.
The show, which is directed by Peter Clerke and written by Stewart Ennis, is described by the promoters as an atmospheric, moving and at times darkly comic exploration of fear.
In 1816, the year without a summer, Mary Shelley, aged 18, has a ‘waking dream’ and begins to write a story that will haunt and define her for the rest of her life.
There will be elements of music hall, melodrama, horror and teenage rebellion, with a pulsing, contemporary cinematic score.
Peter said: “To create a work around the life of Mary Shelley has been a process of mining a rich, deep vein. While the many excitements and joys of her life were always paralleled with sadness and loss, Mary Shelley never lost sight of her beliefs in human dignity, equality and libertarianism.
“She was a woman many years before her time and maintains a striking resonance in the present day. We have tried, throughout, to make a work that both celebrates her life, whilst also reflecting her continued relevance in the 21st century.”
The role of Mary Shelley will be played by Catherine Gillard whose recent projects involve a show with the Philadelphia Live Arts Festival. Richard Williams composes, set and costume design is by Ali MacLaurin and lighting design is by Paul Froy.
Tickets £12.50/£10.50.