- April 24, 2024
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Transylvania mania is about the take over the Flagler Playhouse when the musical comedy “The New Mel Brooks Musical Young Frankenstein” hits the stage April 17 for a 10-show run.
The show tells the story of the grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, Frederick Frankenstein, who inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked side-kick and a leggy lab assistant, young Frankenstein finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his ancestors.
“The show is a good old-fashioned fun time,” said Director Mike Beaman, adding that it is very similar to the Mel Brooks movie. “It’s adult humor, but all in good fun — there’s nothing so shocking that people are going to be offended by it.”
Beaman, who teaches theater at St. Augustine High School, is returning to the playhouse for his third production. He previously worked with Musical Director Curtis Powell to bring “Urinetown” and “The Producers” to life.
One veteran actor, who also made those shows a reality is 24-year-old Beau Wade, who will be playing the lead role of Frederick Frankenstein. Wade has performed in over 10 shows at the playhouse since 2008, and “saved the show” on several productions by taking the leading role in last minute instances. Last season, he learned the lead role in “Baby” overnight to fill in for an actor who became ill.
Wade said that the role of Frankenstein in shaping up to be his favorite character played to date.
“There’s an eccentricity about him,” Wade said, while sitting backstage before the final week of rehearsal.
Someone making their community theater debut is Robyn Lafferty, 26, who will be playing the role of Elizabeth Benning. Lafferty said that theater is something that she always wanted to do, but was too afraid to try.
“Since becoming a mom, I wanted to instill certain values in my son, which includes trying new things and challenging myself to step outside of my comfort zone,” she said. “I want to lead by example.”
Lafferty said that the scariest day was the audition, but since then, she has learned a lot, including that she is braver than she thought she was.
“This is a great spot to come to for community theater,” Wade said. “As much as we love the patrons, more people need to let go and take the stage too. There is no pressure. The shows are good because they’re fun.”
IF YOU GO:
When: 7:30 p.m. April 17, 18, 23, 24, 15 and May 1 and 2; and 2 p.m. April 19, 26 and May 3
Where: Flagler Playhouse, 301 E. Moody Blvd, Bunnell
Tickets: $20 for adults and $15 for students. Call 586-0773 or visit flaglerplayhouse.com.
