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UWinnipeg Theatre and Film presents Frankenstein

Frankenstein Poster

Frankenstein Poster

WINNIPEG, MB – Mary Shelley’s enduring gothic classic Frankenstein was written two hundred years ago. To honour this milestone, the University of Winnipeg Department of Theatre and Film presents Dorothy Louise’s stirring stage adaptation of Shelley’s literary masterpiece: Frankenstein, directed by Ari Weinberg, Artistic Director of Winnipeg Jewish Theatre. The show runs at the Asper Centre for Theatre and Film from February 13 – 17, 2018.

“No work of literature has done more to shape the way people imagine science and its moral consequences than Frankenstein; or The Modern Prometheus, Mary Shelley’s enduring tale of creation and responsibility,” claims the University of Arizona’s Frankenstein Bicentennial Project. “The novel’s themes and tropes—such as the complex dynamic between creator and creation—continue to resonate with contemporary audiences. Frankenstein continues to influence the way we confront emerging technologies, conceptualize the process of scientific research, imagine the motivations and ethical struggles of scientists, and weigh the benefits of innovation with its unforeseen pitfalls.”

Dorothy Louise’s stage adaptation is full of stark theatricality and palpable drama. Ms Louise incorporates elements of Mary Shelley’s life into the narrative which chronicles the creation of the famed novel paralleled alongside Victor Frankenstein’s creation of his creature.

Frankenstein, staged in an alleyway configuration by director Weinberg, features a haunting set design, complete with gargoyles, by senior design student Darryl Audette, mercurial lighting by department graduate Ksenia Broda-Milian, and simple and evocatively gothic costumes by Lauren Martin. All technical work is done by senior production students.

“Dorothy Louise has drafted a bold stage adaptation of a timeless work that is ripe for opportunities to use stage magic,” says Weinberg. “Choral speaking, puppetry and an alleyway staging will bring this well-known story to life in ways you’ve never seen it told before. It’s an exciting way to celebrate Frankenstein’s 200th birthday.”

Frankenstein runs Tuesday, February 13 through Friday, February 16 at 8:00 pm, and Saturday, February 17 at 8:00 pm at the The Asper Centre for Theatre and Film (400 Colony Street). Admission is free but reservations are recommended. Please call our 24-hour Reservation Line at 204.786.9152, or visit UWinnipeg’s Department of Theatre and Film website at http://theatre.uwinnipeg.ca

Warnings:  Adult content and language; use of theatrical haze.

Based in the Asper Centre for Theatre and Film at The University of Winnipeg, the Department of Theatre and Film offers concentrations in Acting, Design, Drama in Education, Filmmaking, Playwriting, and Production/Stage Management. Our classes are small and our approach is practical.  Our faculty is comprised of highly respected and award-winning professionals who are experienced teachers and remain active in their disciplines, bringing relevant and up-to-date instruction to our students.

 MEDIA CONTACT

Melinda Tallin, Department of Theatre and Film, University of Winnipeg
T: 204.786.9955, E:  m.tallin@uwinnipeg.ca

Tim Babcock, Department of Theatre and Film, University of Winnipeg
T:  204-786-9455, E: t.babcock@uwinnipeg.ca .