Most recent performance
There are currently no scheduled performances of Frankenstein. It was last on stage 5–23 March 2019 as part of the Spring 2018/19 season.
The Story
Victor Frankenstein is about to leave home for university, away from his family and Elizabeth, the woman he loves. Just before he departs, his mother dies in childbirth. Victor becomes obsessed with the idea of bringing his mother back to life, and his relentless studies eventually lead him to animate non-living matter. Repulsed by the Creature he has brought into the world, he flees.
Read more… (Contains spoilers)
Background
Liam Scarlett's Frankenstein, his first full-length ballet for the Royal Opera House main stage, is an adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic Gothic novel. The score, composed for the ballet by Lowell Liebermann, sweeps the dramatic action towards its devastating end, while the detailed and chilling designs by John Macfarlane bring the Creature and the anatomy lab to terrifying life.
Scarlett's choreography is highly expressive and dramatic as it explores the grief and desperation felt by Victor and the Creature's childlike need for acceptance. The ballet's momentum is sustained by the whole Company, with fellow students pushing Victor further into isolation and obsession, couples swirling around the stage in a dark waltz at his wedding, and the inevitable, tragic end.
News and features
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Your Reaction: What did you think of The Royal Ballet's Frankenstein 2019?
6 March 2019
Audience and press reviews of Liam Scarlett's adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic Gothic novel.
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Royal Opera House 2018/19 Season announced
20 March 2018
The Royal Ballet and Royal Opera's programme for the coming Season include world premieres, major new productions and classic revivals.
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Watch: Rehearsals for The Royal Ballet's Symphonic Dances
24 April 2017
Choreographer Liam Scarlett gives a glimpse of his new ballet set to Rachmaninoff's remarkable score.
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Watch: The gruesome influences that shaped the staging of The Royal Ballet's Frankenstein
20 May 2016
Designer John Macfarlane gives an up-close look at the ballet's sets which include a full-size anatomy theatre complete with gory prop cadaver.
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Watch: Darcey Bussell explores Frankenstein's emotional pas de deux
19 May 2016
The former Royal Ballet Principal joins choreographer Liam Scarlett in rehearsal with Laura Morera.
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Your Reaction: Frankenstein live in cinemas and on BP Big Screens
18 May 2016
What did you think of the live relay of Liam Scarlett's Royal Ballet adaptation of Mary Shelley's iconic novel?
