Back in 2017, The Stage Door brought “The Producers” to town and the end result was one of the strongest community theater productions southern Utah has ever seen. Well now, The Stage Door is…
Oh, wait a second…
This just in…
I was just informed that it’s actually pronounced “Stige Door.”
That’s right, folks! Mel Brooks‘ hilarious musical comedy, “Young Frankenstein,” comes alive for a limited 3-week run at The Electric Theater! September 13th to September 29th! Produced by…The Stige Door, this is just one of many noteworthy southern Utah premieres to be hosted by this respected local non-profit theater organization and it’s actually the second Mel Brooks comedy to hit their stage, the first being the previously mentioned, “The Producers.”
“Young Frankenstein” is, of course, based on the masterclass 1974 comedy of the same name. The film was co-written and directed by Brooks with a writing assist by the late, great comedy titan, Gene Wilder, who has often referred to “Young Frankenstein” as his best film. This stage musical is essentially a parody of the monster movie genre, most notably the unforgettable 1931 Universal Pictures adaptation of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein.”
At the helm of this must-see production is professional (and versatile) actress/singer, Heidi Anderson, known locally for her memorable work as Ursula in Tuacahn’s production of “Little Mermaid,” as well as her buzzed-about turns as Madame Thenardier in “Les Miserables” and Mother Abbess in “The Sound of Music.” In addition to her undeniable acting chops, Anderson is also an accomplished director and not only lends her considerable talent to this stellar production of “Young Frankenstein,” but also doubles down as the wig and makeup designer for the show.
Taking on the legendary role of Frederick Von Frankenstein is the comically gifted Jared Davis, whom you may remember as the title character in a recent SGMT production of “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” and who you’ll soon see on the big screen as the title character in a quirky, independently produced rom-com called MAVEN BAXTER.
Frankenstein’s unforgettable and trusty sidekick, Igor, is played by righteously hilarious DHS drama instructor/theater director, Josh Scott, with gifted local musician Cathy Ford taking on the role of estate housekeeper and former Frankenstein lover, Frau Blücher. The multi-talented Ford will also serve as the production’s musical director. Rounding out a spirited supporting cast are a dozen committed performers from the southern Utah area and they are all complimented by an expertly capable production team including tech wizard Don Gilman and veteran choreographer Becky Reed.
Again, “Young Frankenstein” runs from September 13th to September 29th at The Electric Theater. Showtimes are Thursday thru Saturday at 7:30 PM with a 2 PM matinee on Saturdays. Tickets are $18.50-$21 and can be ordered online at http://www.thestagedoortheater.com or by calling Showtix toll free at 866-967-8167. Messages or special requests can also be left at 435-656-4407.
This electrifying adaptation of Mel Brooks’ monstrously funny film will most certainly leave you in stitches!
