AUBURN — A talented cast of 27 is hard at work rehearsing for the upcoming Community Little Theatre production of the hit musical comedy “Young Frankenstein.” This award-winning musical with a book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan and music and lyrics by Brooks, is closely based on the 1974 film of the same name written by Brooks and Gene Wilder and directed by Brooks. A parody of the horror film genre, especially the 1931 Universal Pictures classic “Frankenstein,” it has been described by Brooks as his best film.

Frederick Frankenstein, grandson of the infamous Victor Frankenstein, inherits his family’s estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick, Igor, and lab assistant Inga, Frederick finds himself in the mad scientist shoes of his late grandfather. He brings to life a creature — a very large creature — who then escapes and terrifies the residents of Transylvania. Musical hilarity ensues.

The principal actors are Zack Handlen, Dr. Frederick Frankenstein; Brittany Wallingford, Elizabeth Benning; Colleen Katana, Inga; John Blanchette, Inspector Kemp; John Nutting, Harold the Hermit; Mason Lagasse, Igor; Jennine Cannizo, Frau Blucher; and Michael Blakemore, who plays the monster.

Other cast members include James Mckinley, Ethan Rombalski, Lynn O’Donnell, Brooke Shelley, Andrew Lachapelle, Jacob Morin, Megan Record, Noah Keneborus. Ricky Brewster, Shelly Carver, Sophie Messina, Bailey Sabine, Melissa Guimond, Michelle Andrews, Mindy Hodgkin, Olivia Morel, Soleil Fournier and Sophia Jones. Chris Hodgkin is the director.

“Young Frankenstein” will be performed at 8 p.m. Aug. 10, 11, 16, 17 and 18 and at 2 p.m. Aug. 12 and 19, at the Great Falls Performing Arts Center on Academy Street in Auburn. More information is available online at www.laclt.com.

From left are Zack Handlen (Dr. Frederick Frankenstein); Brittany Wallingford (Elizabeth Benning); Colleen Katana (Inga); John Blanchette (Inspector Kemp); John Nutting (Harold the Hermit); Mason Lagasse (Igor); and Jennine Cannizo (Frau Blucher). Missing from the photo is Michael Blakemore, who plays the monster.

Comments are no longer available on this story