Young Frankenstein is Back and It’s on Stage and In Your Face!

Young Frankenstein is arguably the best of Mel Brooks’ movie career.  And though one can argue that the film’s greatness was due to the comedic genius of Gene Wilder, not to mention the goofy menace of then-unknown Peter Boyle, much credit has to be given to Mel Brooks’ ear for dialogue.  Sure, Teri Garr looked hot and Madeline Kahn stole the show, but the truly inspired moments of the film were all from the mad mind of Brooks–a comedic Frankenstein monster in his own right.

Well guess what?  The legend of Doctor “Frankensteeeeen” is not over.  There is now a touring production coming to a city near you.  Mel Brooks adapted the story into, not only a stage comedy, but also a musical.  The production began in 2007 and ran for two years on Broadway.  However, the production still tours and reunites all of your favorite characters–if not the late comedic masters themselves.

Nevertheless, the spirit is still strong and the parts clearly defined, and all hilarious.  The production has featured high production costs, occasional celebrity roles (Megan Mullally as Elizabeth!) and new songs written by Brooks.  Some of the most memorable tunes include “The Happiest Town In Town”, “Welcome to Transylvania” and “Deep Love.”  And in case you’re wondering, yes, there is even a rendition of “Puttin’ on the Ritz” just as you remember.

The original production was a big hit and it actually was nominated for three Tony Awards, including Best Featured Actor, Best Featured Actress and Best Scenic Design.  Mel Brooks himself suggested that seeing the play live is a great experience, although one different from the usual Brooks production.  He states that the audience “knows ‘Young Frankenstein’ the movie [but] they didn’t know ‘The Producers.'”  Therefore, the audience always knows what happens next throughout the stage play, whether it’s the monster getting horny, a blind hermit spilling soup or, of course, the legendary mispronunciation of the mad doctor’s name.

You should also know that the ending to the original film has been expanded in the theater production –so expect a few surprises!  Why not come experience Mel Brooks’ historical contribution to “monster comedy” live and in person?

Categorized in: Theater