Students take Young Frankenstein from stage to screen in musical theatre production
Coleg Ceredigion students brought comedic brilliance to life as they performed their rendition of Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein at a recent production performed at Aberystwyth’s Castle Theatre.
Young Frankenstein is a classic comedy film directed by Mel Brooks who also co-wrote it with Gene Wilder who played Dr Frederick Frankenstein in the original 1974 release.
This was the first time that Coleg Ceredigion had brought such a cherished comedy film to a new medium such as a stage play or musical and staging it outside the college as Young Frankenstein The Musical.
“It was an ideal project for the creative, proactive, and exceptionally talented group of young performers under my direction,” said Carl Lewis, performing arts lecturer at Coleg Ceredigion. “Given that it involved musical theatre and required mastery of all three theatrical disciplines, it provided an opportunity to challenge and enhance each learner’s performance skills. Consequently, all participants needed to excel in delivering a captivating, demanding, and thoroughly entertaining performance.”
Adapting a film into a different medium often presents creative challenges and opportunities and Young Frankenstein provides rich source material for adaptation, allowing learners to reinterpret characters, scenes and themes in new and imaginative ways.
Musical theatre involves choreography, dance, physical comedy such as slapstick humour, comedy falls and exaggerated movements with an emotional range and depth to convey the complexity of the characters.
Carl Lewis, performing arts lecturer at Coleg Ceredigion and director of its Young Frankenstein production added: “
From the moment the curtains rose, it was clear that the students had truly brought the world of Young Frankenstein The Musical, to life with their electrifying performance.
“One of the most impressive aspects of the students’ performance was their impeccable comedic timing with every punchline landed with precision, eliciting uproarious laughter from the audience.
It was evident that the students had mastered the art of comedic delivery, seamlessly weaving humour into every interaction and musical number.
“The musical numbers were a highlight of the performance, with the students delivering powerhouse vocals that reverberated throughout the theatre.
“From intricate tap routines to lively ensemble dances, they executed each movement with precision and grace, adding an extra layer of excitement and energy to the production.
“Overall, the students’ performance in ‘Young Frankenstein: The Musical’ was nothing short of sensational. Their dedication, talent, and passion shone brightly on stage, leaving the audience thoroughly entertained and enchanted. It was a truly memorable evening of theatre that showcased the incredible potential of these young performers.”
Coleg Ceredigion level three performing arts student Sophie Banning said: “I never imagined I could feel so alive on stage.
“Being a part of Young Frankenstein The Musical was an exhilarating journey from start to finish.
“The countless hours of rehearsals, late-night vocal warm-ups, and rigorous dance practices were all worth it in the end.
“As opening night approached, I was nervous yet excited, but once the lights dimmed and the music began, all those feelings melted away.
“It was like stepping into a different world, where I could fully immerse myself in the character and let go of any inhibitions.
“Each performance was a thrill, and seeing the audience’s reactions filled me with an indescribable sense of joy and accomplishment. Being a part of this production has been transformative, and I’ll cherish the memories and friendships forged during this magical journey for years to come.”
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