Get ready for music, madness, and mayhem with the Broadway hit Young Frankenstein! Based on the classic 1974 film, the original Young Frankenstein was directed by Mel Brooks with his co-writer and star, Gene Wilder. The film is a loving parody of classic horror films, especially the 1930s Frankenstein series. Uniquely shot in black and white to capture the look and feel of the original Universal monster movies, the film even used authentic laboratory equipment from the 1931 Frankenstein. Much of its remarkable, ahead-of-its-time humor came from improvisation, such as the famous line: “Put… the candle… back!”
The film starred Gene Wilder as Dr. Frederick Frankenstein, with unforgettable performances by Marty Feldman, Teri Garr, Cloris Leachman, and Peter Boyle as the Monster. The movie became a legendary success, earning over $86 million on a $2.8 million budget. It also received two Academy Award nominations, went on to influence comedy for decades, and eventually inspired the Broadway musical adaptation—co-written by none other than Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan.
Originally choreographed and directed by Broadway legend Susan Stroman, this smash hit opened in November 2007 at the Hilton Theatre. The show earned Christopher Fitzgerald a Tony nomination for his role as Igor. Ten years later, it moved to the Garrick Theatre in London’s West End with two new songs and a new iconic cast, featuring Hadley Fraser as Dr. Frankenstein and Ross Noble as Igor.
Here at the historic Rochester Opera House, we’re bringing back the remarkable team from our summer production of The Producers! With Jenry Towle directing once again, Brad Reinking returning as choreographer, and Rochester’s own Samuel Tolley rejoining the ROH team as music director.
“Many people know Mel Brooks’ fabulous movie from 1974,” says Towle. “This musical is hilarious, has catchy music, and scratches that itch of spooky, silly, and amazing costumes!”
True to Mel Brooks’ signature style, Young Frankenstein is a love letter to the classic horror films that shaped the genre we know today. The production opens Friday, October 10 at 7:30 p.m. and runs for four weeks, closing Saturday, November 1. Come celebrate Halloween with laughs, spit-takes, jump scares, and maybe a monster or two.
And don’t forget about $10tkts! Head over to our store, Stage Door Tickets and More, to take advantage of this great opportunity, sponsored by Holy Rosary Credit Union. With the purchase of one full-price ticket, you’ll be able to buy two youth tickets for just $10 each. Big family eager for Halloween fun? No problem! $10tkts are available for in-person sales at both the historic box office in the City Hall lobby and at Stage Door Tickets and More at 1 Wakefield Street in Rochester.
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