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Regional Reviews: Washington, D.C. Frankenstein: or The Modern Prometheus Theatre companies in the Washington region are finding innovative ways to retell Mary Shelley's story of the scientist named Victor Frankenstein and the humanoid creature he brings to life. Earlier this year, Washington's Shakespeare Theatre Company staged an adaptation that deconstructed the plot as a whole and focused on the importance of individual moments. Across the Potomac River in Arlington, Virginia, Synetic Theater–renowned for its physical, wordless interpretations of classic literature–has now taken on Frankenstein: or The Modern Prometheus (the full title of Shelley's novel), crafting a visually stunning, wordless work that pares the story down to its essentials. Rather than using Shelley's novel as a template, director Paata Tsikurishvili and adaptor Nathan Weinberger have fused elements of it with the ancient inspiration for the story: the Greek myth of Prometheus, who stole fire from the gods and brought it to earth for humans to use. A major element of this production is its appearance. Paul Charlwood's scenic design is a fascinating wasteland of sculpted mountains and three-dimensional structures, most of which can be rearranged or placed on end. The supporting cast take on various roles during the 95-minute performance, dressed in Erik Teague's fantastical costumes and climbing or floating through Brian S. Allard's intensely colored, shifting lighting design. The action focuses on the antagonists: the Creature (Vato Tsikurishvili), immensely strong but also agile; and Prometheus (Alex Mills), who didn't realize the implications of his actions when he created the being and now is trying to bring it under control. Koki Lortkipanidze and Aaron Kan, composers and sound designers, keep the tension level high throughout. Synetic Theater's Frankenstein: or The Modern Prometheus runs through November 23, 2025, at the Thomas Jefferson Theatre, 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington VA. For tickets and information, please visit synetictheater.org. Resident Dramaturg/Adaptor: Nathan Weinberger Cast: |
