Mary Shelley's Original 'Frankenstein' Live on Stage

Meet the original "Frankenstein," when the play based on Mary Shelley's original story takes the stage for four performances Feb. 14-16 at the historic California Theatre of the Performing Arts. "This show is really spectacular," said Joseph Henson, producer with Theatrical Arts International. "From beginning to end, audiences will be awed by the original Frankenstein creature created by Mary Shelley. "Most people are familiar with the Frankenstein monster depicted in a number of film versions of Shelley's tale," Henson said. "If people have not read the original story, they will be surprised by what they witness in this play. It really is an eye-opener." First published anonymously in London in 1818 and then, under Shelley's name in 1823 in Paris, the novel was titled "Frankenstein; or The Modern Prometheus." The author started writing the story at age 18 and it was published when she was 20. It was based upon a dream she had about a scientist who created life but was then horrified by what he had done. Childlike in his innocence but grotesque in form, Shelley's creature is cast out into a hostile universe by his horror-struck maker, Dr. Victor Frankenstein. Meeting with cruelty wherever he goes, the friendless creature, increasingly desperate and vengeful, determines to track down his creator and strike a terrifying deal. "Frankenstein" is part of the Theatrical Arts International's 2013-2014 season at the California Theatre. Other shows in the season are "Les Miserable's," March 14-16; and "Zoot Suit Riot," May 16-18. In addition, the theater is bringing the national touring show "American Idiot" for one performance only on May 19. The company's latest expansion is its 2013-2014 inaugural season at Gardiner W. Spring Auditorium on the campus of Chaffey High School in Ontario. The season there also includes "Frankenstein" on Feb. 22, followed by "Les Miserable's," March 22; and The Queen Experience," May 24. Presented by the Theatrical Arts International, the show is being presented at 8 p.m. Feb. 14-15 and 2 p.m. Feb. 15-16. Tickets are $38.50-$77.50 and are available at www.ticketmaster.com or through the box office at 909-885-5152.