West Potomac's Theater Department Performs 'Young Frankenstein'

Written by Mary Long of Langley High School

---

A mad scientist, a goofy hunchback, an eccentric assistant, a creepy handmaid and a green monster — not your typical cast of characters. But the West Potomac High School theater department brings them all to life in their production of "Young Frankestein the Musical," a horror-story parody and rock-and-roll musical written by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan that follows a schmaltzy set of crazy characters attempting to recreate the infamous Frankenstein.

Opening on Broadway in 2007, "Young Frankenstein" tells the tale of Frederick Frankenstein, the last living relative of the infamous Dr. Frankenstein, the creator of the world’s most notorious undead creature. Frederick, who wishes to dissociate with his family name, insists upon being called “Fronkentseen,” but must return to Transylvania to claim his grandfather’s estate after receiving news of his death.

In Transylvania, Frederick is immediately greeted by the humorous hunchback, Igor, who introduces himself as Frederick’s sidekick, and says how glad he is that two are “Together Again For the First Time.” Next, Igor introduces Frederick to the local girl, Inga, whom Igor has hired to be Frederick’s laboratory assistant.

Once the trio arrives at the Frankenstein estate, Frau Bulcher, the eerily mysterious handmaid and former girlfriend of the older Dr. Frankenstein, gives the group a tour of the castle, eventually leading them down to Frankenstein’s old laboratory and convincing Frederick to remake the monster of family folklore. What ensues is a laundry list of shenanigans and tomfoolery.

The leads and other named roles of West Potomac’s production carried the show. With pleasing vocal talent and memorable acting, "Young Frankenstein the Musical" spotlighted nearly all members of the cast, be it through a lead role or a featured dance part.

The trio of Frederick, Igor and Inga stole the show with their impressive skills and entertaining performances. The chemistry among these three leads carried into the audience, with all members of the group playing delightfully off each other. Frederick, portrayed by Ben Roberts, gave knowing glances and deadpan looks to the audience, displaying spot-on comedic timing and strong characterization. Solid vocal talent only added to Roberts’ enjoyable performance.

Freshman David Jarzen was Igor, nailing the role of the goofy and well-meaning sidekick through lighthearted comedy, quick leaps in the air, fantastic physicality, and comedic facial expressions. Charming the audience with her strong Transylvanian accent, impressive yodeling skills, and bouncy personality was Katie Carbone in her portrayal of Frederick’s bubbly love interest, Inga.

Emily Carbone as Frau Bulcher displayed excellent physicality, walking with a distinctly stiff stride throughout the production. Nikki Amico mastered the role of Elizabeth, playing up on the character’s intensive narcissism and self-centeredness. The ensemble maintained good energy throughout, although at times dance numbers seemed forced and unmotivated.

A fabulous stage crew exhibited lightning speed during transitions, making the show run from scene to scene seamlessly while still displaying eye-catching and involved sets. The sets spectacularly used the vast amount of workable space, highlighting the depth of the stage. However, certain sceneries fell short in comparison to others, giving a rushed, unfinished look to a few select backdrops.

Nearly every aspect of West Potomac High School’s "Young Frankenstein the Musical" was a delight to see and hear, but the most gratifying part of the show was the chemistry and talent among the lead actors, who anchored the production with their remarkable talent.