Walking into Chesapeake Shakespeare Company for Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, directed by Ian Gallanar and co-directed by Lizzy Albert, you are immediately greeted by an ominous set that establishes the dark tone of the production. With spooky season upon us, the theater offers a compelling take on a classic tale that explores the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of playing God. This is a story that reaches beyond the horror of creating life to examine what happens when that life is met with fear and rejection.
At its heart, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein by David Gatlin follows Victor Frankenstein, whose relentless pursuit of scientific discovery leads him to accomplish something extraordinary — and terrifying. After bringing a living being into existence, Victor must confront the consequences of his actions as the Creature struggles to understand his place in a world that fears him. Through a series of encounters and recollections, the story examines the complicated relationship between creator and creation, raising questions about responsibility, isolation, and what truly makes someone a monster.
Fabiolla Da Silva delivers a passionate performance in the dual roles of Mary Shelley and Elizabeth. She brings warmth and sincerity to her characters, giving each a distinct personality while navigating the emotional demands of the story. Her work helps ground the production in the human relationships that surround its darker events, making both roles engaging to watch.
Joshua Williams commands the stage as Lord Byron and the Creature. His presence is undeniable, bringing strength and intensity to both characters. As the Creature, Williams conveys more than a frightening exterior; he captures the frustration of someone searching for acceptance and finding rejection instead. His portrayal encourages the audience to look beyond appearances and consider how cruelty and isolation can shape a life.
Vince Eisenson delivers a flawless performance as Victor Frankenstein and Percy Bysshe Shelley. With impressive control, he moves between the two roles while giving each its own character and purpose. As Victor, Eisenson convincingly portrays a man consumed by discovery, whose ambition ultimately carries a devastating cost. His performance anchors the production and gives weight to the moral questions at the center of the story.
Jose O. Guzman, who plays Dr. John Polidori, Walton, Henry Clerval, and De Lacy, handles an impressive range of roles with skill. Dawn Thomas Ready also takes on several characters, including Claire Clairmont, Mother, and the child William. Both actors manage the challenge of portraying personalities with different relationships and motivations, helping the story unfold smoothly. Their versatility is particularly noteworthy in a production that asks its cast to move frequently between roles.
There is a considerable amount of dialogue, much of it written in the formal language of the period. Still, the story is surprisingly easy to follow. The actors make the shifts between characters and the interruptions in the main narrative clear enough that the audience can keep pace. While the language may require a little extra concentration, it contributes to the production’s literary character without becoming an obstacle to enjoying the performance.
My only real issue was the placement of a chair near the outer edge of the stage at the beginning of the production. A blanket draped over it further obstructed the view of some of the actors. Depending on where you were seated, this could make portions of the action difficult to see. It is a minor staging concern, but one worth correcting so the audience can fully appreciate the performances.
Overall, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein at Chesapeake Shakespeare Company is a worthwhile addition to the spooky season. Gallanar and Albert bring a familiar story to the stage with a capable cast and an atmosphere that draws you into its unsettling world. More than a tale about a frightening creature, this is a story about ambition, rejection, and the responsibility we owe to the lives we influence. If you are looking for theater that offers both a seasonal chill and something meaningful to consider afterward, make room for Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. You may leave questioning whether the real monster is the one created in a laboratory or the humanity that turned against him.
Running time: 90 minutes with a 15-minute intermission.
Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein plays through November 8, 2026, at Chesapeake Shakespeare Company, 7 South Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD. Purchase tickets ($35–$86) by calling 410-244-8570, visiting the Box Office in person, or ordering online. or directions, parking, transportation, and other plan-your-visit information, click here.
The program for Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is online here.
