By Shirley Lorraine –
After a five year wait, Young Frankenstein, a Mel Brooks Musical (music and lyrics), comes alive, literally, on the Ojai Art Center Theater stage. Directed by the multi-talented John Medeiros, the musical will delight, surprise, and intentionally offend Mel Brooks fans of all ages.
Originally slated to run in 2020, the musical was sidelined by Covid. However, the intervening years have allowed it to grow, be recast and entertain new staging ideas. The musical is extremely well cast, technically challenging in many ways, and well worth the wait.
Those familiar with the popular 1974 film written by and starring Gene Wilder will anticipate many of the blatant bawdy references (a Brooks trademark) which director Medeiros has the actors play to the hilt.
Inappropriate? Yes, by today’s standards, but totally retro Brooks. Medeiros is to be commended for keeping the script intact with all the naughty bits some of us have come to know and love. The actors all rise to the occasion, clearly embracing the sheer silliness of the work. This type of broad comedy is not as easy to pull off successfully as one might think. It requires complete commitment and a willingness to go beyond personal comfort zones. This cast achieves that in spades.
The story, of course, is quite a broad satire of the familiar story of the original Frankenstein monster’s creation story by Mary Shelley.
The large cast is headlined by Andrew Eiden as the reluctant Frankenstein relative who inherits the castle. Eiden is simply superb in the role. He is well matched with Sarah Kei Eiden as Igor, the hunchback castle assistant of dubious background. Her physical and facial play is a marvel to watch.
Laura Ring embodies the stern Frau Blucher beautifully throughout. Marisa Miculian portrays socialite Elizabeth with delightful abandon. James Baker takes on the role of The Creature to pronounced effect. The infamous “Puttin’ on The Ritz” number is well done with additional tap dancers.
Each of the ensemble members play several roles, change scenery, dance, and step in wherever needed to complete the overall picture.
Of specific mention are Tom Hall (Hermit, Herald, Villager, Student, Md Scientist) and evan austin as Inspector Kemp who both give sterling comedic performances in fine Mel Brooks tradition.
The production values are high. The setting is multi-level with changeable flats used to terrific effect. Visual effects, lighting, and music background accents are all spot on. Costuming is excellent. The entire performance is time well spent. Go see it if you can and be prepared to laugh.
Young Frankenstein, the Musical continues performances Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through July 20 .at the Ojai ArtCenter Theater, 113 S. Montgomery Street, Ojai. 805-604-8797, www.ojaiact.org. Extra performance Thursday, July 17 at 7:30 p.m.
