26-27 Proposal: Young Frankenstein

Young Frankenstein, by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan

Directed by Ruth Mandsager

Music Direction by Jim Martinez

Show Synopsis

From MTI:

"Grandson of the infamous Viktor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein (pronounced "Fronk-en-steen") inherits his family's estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor (pronounced "Eye-gore"), and a leggy lab assistant, Inga (pronounced normally), Frederick finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors. "It's alive!" he exclaims as he brings to life a creature to rival his grandfather's. Eventually, of course, the monster escapes and hilarity continuously abounds.

Every bit as relevant to audience members who will remember the original as it will be to newcomers, Young Frankenstein has all the panache of the screen sensation with a little extra theatrical flair added. With such memorable tunes as "The Transylvania Mania", "He Vas My Boyfriend" and "Putting' on the Ritz," Young Frankenstein is scientifically proven, monstrously good entertainment."

Vision Statement

The movie YF is admittedly a comedic genius that speaks to multiple generations of fans. Brooks' spoof of the Frankenstein movies is nothing less than genius! His musical adaptation is no different. He not only stays true to the movie script, but has added music that spoofs several genres of musical and choreographic styles. My goal in directing YF is to stay as true to the movie script as possible using projections of familiar film images/projections, sound effects, costumes and hair and makeup designs that mirror those of the movie. Brooks' comedic style, though full of sexual innuendo, relies mostly on witty word play and comedic sight gags that are funny to most age groups. Although at first glance the set could be a huge elaborate castle with many set decorations and props, I believe (as I have done with past productions) in a less is more approach and that YF can be done very well with the budget currently set forth by the Majestic.

Comedy is tricky and challenging, but Mel Brooks' comedy is timeless. Young Frankenstein is perfect for a Halloween-time show and will no doubt draw full houses.

The cast could be as small as 18-20 or expanded to the Majestic's limit of no more than 35. The choreography can be simple or complex with potential for many different styles including a potential call for an ensemble of tap dancers for "Puttin' on the Ritz" All lead characters with the exception of 2-3 may be cast as any gender and the ensemble is given many opportunities for solo moments.

This show hasn't been done around here for a very long time, so it's time to remount it, especially with the newer 2016 version - making a better, more streamlined and less dated show. It's definitely a show that people will come to see, enjoy and tell their friends about.