It's Alive! Mel Brooks' Young Frankenstein Brings Monster Laughs to Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre
Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre is closing out its summer season with a gleefully silly trip to Transylvania, as "Mel Brooks' Young Frankenstein" takes over the outdoor stage in downtown Annapolis through September 5, 2026.
Adapted for the stage by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan from Brooks' beloved 1974 film co-created with Gene Wilder, the musical is a loving send-up of classic monster movies, particularly the 1930s screen adaptations of Mary Shelley's gothic tale. The story follows Frederick Frankenstein, a respected anatomy professor who learns that his infamous - and quite possibly mad - grandfather has died and left him the family castle. Despite his best efforts to distance himself from the family name, Frederick soon finds himself drawn into continuing his grandfather's notorious experiments, aided by a hunchbacked lab assistant, a mysterious housekeeper, and a lovely young laboratory helper. Naturally, a monster is soon loose upon the countryside, much to the alarm of the local villagers.
Directed by Stephen Emery, this production has been earning enthusiastic praise for its excellent cast. J.T. Spivy leads the company as Frederick Frankenstein, bringing a rich singing voice, sharp dance skills, and an amusingly overconfident charm to the role. CeCe Newbrough is a standout as the formidable housekeeper Frau Blucher - a part made famous by Cloris Leachman on screen - delivering a deliciously sinister turn that has audiences howling. Andrew Keegan brings impish energy to Igor, gleefully scampering about as his master's experiments take shape, while Emily L. Sergo makes a powerhouse vocal impression as Elizabeth, Frederick's overbearing fiancee. Dean Davis rounds out the principal cast as The Monster, lumbering endearingly across the stage before showing off some surprising dance moves of his own.
Musical direction by Sarah Mitchell and choreography by Mae Bartek combine for rollicking full-company production numbers, all backed by ASGT's signature live orchestra, conducted by Billy Georg and cleverly tucked behind the scenic design by Christian Londos.
True to Brooks' comedic sensibility, the show is both silly and cheerfully raunchy, packed with double entendres and gags that draw as many groans as guffaws - all part of the fun. The production also arrives at a milestone moment for the theatre itself, as Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre celebrates 60 years of keeping live theatre thriving in the heart of downtown Annapolis.
"Mel Brooks' Young Frankenstein" runs approximately two hours with one 15-minute intermission and plays through September 5, 2026 at Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre, 143 Compromise Street, Annapolis, MD.