Danny Boyle’s Frankenstein at London’s National Theatre has attracted huge amounts of attention.
Not only is Boyle the internationally acclaimed director of films like Slumdog Millionaire and 127 Hours, but the leads are Jonny Lee Miller - possibly best-known for his role in Trainspotting - and Benedict Cumberbatch - a.k.a. BBC’s Sherlock.
But, as theatre critics have mulled over the mirrored roles of Miller and Cumberbatch, or Frankenstein and his monster which swap depending on the night, it has become clear this is not a play which simply relies on big names to bring in big audiences but is, in fact, one of the most exciting plays of the year so far.
Which is all very lovely for Worcestershire’s theatre lovers, apart from the fact it is on stage more than two hours away.
So, it is with huge excitement that Pershore’s Number 8 revealed they would be showing Frankenstein as part of National Theatre Live’s season of broadcasts next Thursday, March 17.
“This is something a bit edgey,” said Emma Bangham, Pershore Number 8’s programme manager. “It’s really exciting because it’s Danny Boyle and such great actors.
“Just from the little clips and images we’ve seen, it’s definitely worth seeing.”
The NT Live season has been a huge success for Pershore’s theatre.
The last broadcast - King Lear at the Donmar - sold out, and Bangham says even productions which haven’t have left the audience spell-bound.
“It’s very different to going to the theatre, but also very different to film,” she explained.
"You do get the feeling of a live event but you also get a really good view of the stage, which you wouldn’t have normally unless you paid a lot of money.”
The broadcasts are also a great way to introduce people to theatre without spending a huge amount.
“If you were to go to London to see this it would be a huge commitment of both time and money - a big risk for someone who is not 100 per cent sure they like theatre,” said Bangham.
“But with this, they can just come to the local cinema. I think people are definitely more willing to take a chance that way.”
- Tickets priced at £11.50 full price and £10 for students and are on sale now from Number 8 Box Office on 01386 555488.
For more about live broadcasts at Number 8 see number8.org.
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