Mount Vernon — If you’re blue and you don’t know where to go to, go to West Potomac High School’s production of Mel Brooks’ “Young Frankenstein the Musical.” The musical comedy is full of laughs about the classic horror story, from the mad scientist and his monster to a short visit from Dracula, too.
The musical is based on Brooks and Gene Wilder’s 1974 film, similarly titled “Young Frankenstein.” The show opened on Broadway in late 2007 and closed after 484 performances, with a national tour beginning in September of 2009. The show opens with Transylvanian villagers celebrating the death of Doctor Victor von Frankenstein, but then worrying that they are still in danger due to his one living relative, grandson Frederick Frankenstein. Frederick is ashamed of his family name, but after being alerted that he must settle his grandfather’s estate, he heads to Transylvania, eventually falling into the footsteps of his ancestors among musical numbers and highly suggestive hilarity.
The cast was led strongly by Ben Roberts and Katie Carbone in the roles of Frederick Frankenstein and his assistant, Inga. The two showed congenial romantic chemistry, which intensified the comedy of their explicitly suggestive moments. Carbone was able to strongly support the musical numbers with a strong, controlled voice, which could perform musical feats from yodeling to belting out other songs.
The role of the hilarious Igor, whose grandfather worked for Frankenstein’s grandfather, and who wished to do the same, was filled by David Jarzen. The young actor had comedic timing that perfected many jokes of the show, and seemed to deliver great physical and surreal comedic actions with ease.
A standout performer among the smaller, featured roles was Eddie Perez in the role of the blind hermit. He sweetly delivered a short song about wanting someone to talk to, and suddenly receiving a visit from the monster himself, played by Dan Evans. Acting blind as a bat, Perez was able to implement great physical comedy in pouring hot soup all over the monster, smashing a glass in his hand, and burning him in attempts to light a cigar. The pair was able to create a well-working visual juxtaposition, with Evans’ panicked flailing about and Perez’ calm as day actions.
The show’s pit orchestra performed the music of the show commendably, sounding as one unit and maintaining a very smooth sound throughout the production.
The cast of West Potomac High School’s show put on a hilarious production with great timing, and was able to handle certain mature themes very well. Their rendition of “Young Frankenstein the Musical” proved that anyone can be a lovable comic, even those