If you’re looking for a night of nonstop laughs, Broadway at Music Circus’ YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN absolutely delivers. If you’ve seen the classic Mel Brooks film, you’ll have a pretty good idea of what to expect, but the stage version still manages to surprise you with its own energy and charm. It’s the kind of laugh-out-loud musical that keeps the audience smiling from beginning to end.
Based on the beloved comedy, YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN follows Dr. Frederick Frankenstein as he inherits his infamous grandfather’s castle in Transylvania and reluctantly finds himself continuing the family legacy. What follows is a ridiculous adventure filled with unforgettable characters, catchy songs, and Mel Brooks’ signature brand of over-the-top humor.
The cast was fantastic from top to bottom. Frederick Frankenstein (Ben Dibble) and Igor (Jared Gertner) were perfectly cast, both in appearance and performance. They looked and sounded exactly how you’d imagine, and their comedic chemistry carried the show from one hilarious moment to the next.
Two of the standout performances came from Frau Blücher (Lesli Margherita) and Inga (Cate Hayman). Frau Blücher stole every scene with her dramatic entrances, perfectly timed deadpan humor, and commanding stage presence. Inga was equally delightful, bringing warmth, charm, and a powerhouse voice to some of the show’s most memorable musical numbers. Both characters delivered some of the best songs of the evening.
The music was catchy, the choreography was full of personality, and the entire production embraced the ridiculous spirit of Mel Brooks. The lighting and scenic design deserve a shout-out as well. Dr. Frankenstein’s laboratory was a standout, with its cold, industrial design, crackling electricity, towering machinery, and hydraulic effects creating exactly the kind of mad scientist’s workshop you’d expect. Every design element added to the fun without overshadowing the performances.
What makes YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN work so well is that it never takes itself too seriously. It fully embraces the absurd, inviting the audience to laugh right along with it. Just one friendly heads-up, though: this one is definitely for the grown-ups, so leave the kids at home and enjoy a hilariously unfiltered night at the theater.
YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN is playing now through July 19 at the UC Davis Health Pavilion, and you won’t want to miss this one. After all, laughter really is the best medicine… especially when it’s powered by an Abby Normal brain. Learn more here.
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