THEATRE REVIEW MUSICAL: Hope Mill Theatre’s Production of MEL BROOK’S YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN Liverpool Playhouse Theatre

Broadway comes to Liverpool via Transylvania and no doubt on its way to London’s West End. This all singing, all dancing multi-talented cast lead by Coronation Street’s Daniel Brocklebank starring as Dr Frankenstein is a joy to watch. It is playful and follows the story in the same theme as the movie. Those familiar with the 1974 film version will not be disappointed and this show is ready to also welcome a new audience. 

The gothic set design, by Sophia Pardon, works seamlessly throughout using modern technology and light-filled screen projections to bring the classic tale to life as we journey from New York city to young Dr Frankenstein’s deceased grandfather’s Transylvanian village, with his, many roomed, creepy house on a quest to complete his lifelong work of bringing a dead body back to life. It is here that we first encounter the outrageously hilarious Igor, complete with a travelling hump on his back, played skilfully by Curtis Patrick in a scene stealing performance that will delight all ages. He is nothing short of delicious in performance throughout, bringing everything from a Shakespearian gravedigger vibe to a playful childlike quality to the role. He brings high energy and fun, as do the entire cast, to this dark but much-loved tale.

The opening high energy number The Brain both surprises and delights, setting the tone for the show and as the wonderful ensemble energetically showcase their talents you could be forgiven for thinking there were twice the number of performers on stage. Music and often hilarious lyrics by Mel Brooks bring fun and laughter to this production with music performed live throughout under the expert musical direction of Francesca Warren with orchestra supervision by Charlie Ingles. Live music is obviously integral to the show, it is a musical after all, and it moves this show along at a pace. It is a pleasure to share this opportunity brought to life at Liverpool’s Playhouse by such talented musicians. 

Cast members surprise at every turn with stunning solos but watch out for Elizabeth Benning played by Amelia Adams perform a show stopping Deep Love in Act 2 that has the audience both laughing and clapping. A full-on Hollywood version of Puttin’ On The Ritz, performed by the whole cast is mesmerising, with fantastic costumes, tap dancing and high kicks galore. 

Saving the best to the last, Pete Gallaher gives a fabulous performance as The Monster as he goes through all emotions to try to become a good human. His sheer physicality is awesome and enhanced by stunning makeup and enormous shoes that take on a character of their own. It is however his voice and surprisingly light-footed dancing that brig yet another surprise performance.

The Liverpool audience much appreciated a local reference in the show and the performance ended with a well-deserved standing ovation. My personal memory will forever be the sight of a group of women high kicking their way out of the theatre singing Puttin' On The Ritz. Pure joy.

Reviewer: Barbara Sherlock

On - 4 December 2025