IT'S ALIVE: CCM presents electrifying adaptation of "Frankenstein"

The UC College-Conservatory of Music (CCM) Play Series brings a classic tale of ambition and alienation to life with Nick Dear’s Frankenstein, a stage adaptation of Mary Shelley’s iconic novel. The production runs from Thursday, Feb 9. through Sunday, Feb. 12, 2023, in the Patricia Corbett Theater. Tickets are available now through the CCM Box Office.

A genre-defining work for both science fiction and Gothic literature, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus grapples with the moral implications and fallout from a dogged pursuit of scientific achievement. While most audience members may be familiar with the story through classic horror movies (or their spoofs), Nick Dear’s 2011 adaptation brings into focus the ethical conundrums of Shelley’s original fable.

The original London production — starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Johnny Lee Miller alternating as Frankenstein and the Creature — became an international sensation when it was broadcast worldwide. Centering the action around Frankenstein’s monster, the adaptation emphasizes intense human emotions and complex relationships over shock or gory spectacle.

The dynamic between a genius creator and his rejected, confused creation is explored over the course of the play, and the audience watches the Creature struggle to find his place in a world he never asked to be brought into. “What is it to learn to be human?” asks director Susan Felder, CCM Associate Professor of Acting and Movement. “Do we have a soul? How do we determine right from wrong when all of society rejects us?”

To grapple with such massive philosophical questions requires “tour-de-force acting,” says Felder, and CCM Acting students are up to the task. “The acting is some of the strongest and most nuanced I’ve seen on any professional stage,” featuring “bold choices and deep exploration of what it is to be human.” In addition to the performances, audiences will be treated to “a feast of visual projections and moving stage elements” brought to life by CCM Theatre Design and Production students. Frankenstein is “a labor of love for anyone involved,” says Felder.

Loneliness, the desire to belong, and intellectual hubris drive this modern take on a Gothic classic. Ultimately, audiences will be confronted with a disconcerting question: in the push and pull between a genius and his creation, who is ultimately the more human, and who is the monster?

By Nick Dear
From the novel by Mary Shelley

Frankenstein will last approximately two hours with a 15-minute intermission.

Content advisory: This production contains adult content, including scenes depicting physical and sexual violence.  

All of CCM's ticketed events will have digital programs instead of printed programs. QR codes will be displayed at events to give access to the digital programs to patrons. The programs are also accessibile through the link below. Programs for events will be shared shortly before the event date.

• 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9 
• 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10 
• 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 
• 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 12 

*ASL interpreting available during Friday, Feb. 10 performance

*Traffic and parking on campus may be heavier than normal due to a UC Men’s Basketball game at 7 p.m. on February 11 at UC’s Fifth Third Arena.

Patricia Corbett Theater, CCM Village 
University of Cincinnati

Single tickets are $32.50. Student discounts and group rates are also available. Tickets can be purchased in person at the CCM Box Office, over the telephone at 513-556-4183 or online now through our e-box office.

Learn about additional ticket options for current CCM students.

CCM is located on the campus of the University of Cincinnati. For detailed driving directions, visit ccm.uc.edu/directions.

Parking is available in UC's CCM Garage (located at the base of Corry Boulevard off Jefferson Avenue) and additional garages throughout the UC campus. 

CCM OnStage patrons can add pre-paid parking to their checkout carts when purchasing tickets. Pre-paid parking is date/performance specific. CCM Garage parking rates for a performance or special event is usually available for $10-15.

Learn more about parking at UC's CCM Garage.

For additional information on parking at UC, please visit uc.edu/about/parking.

Featured image at the top: Frankenstein promotional artwork by CCM student Hunter Trammell.