A word to the wise. Somehow, make time to see “Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein – The Musical,” which just opened at Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor. This show is electrifying and out of this world, awesome! The audience on opening Saturday night (me included) roared with laughter, cheered, applauded, and, in the end, stood and gave a thunderous, foot-stomping standing ovation. The production is brilliantly directed and choreographed by Gerry McIntyre. His stamp of excellence was all over the show. He had his talented cast absolutely thrill the opening night audience.
As in all good musicals, you will find yourself humming a few of the memorable tunes of this production on your way home after the show. “Mel Brook’s Young Frankenstein” is based on the film by Mel Brooks. The Broadway Musical, now on the Bay Street Stage, is as funny and entertaining as the movie. The “monster’s” (Sean Bell) performance of ‘Puttin on the Ritz,’ had the audience singing along. One just can’t say enough about how the cast sang and presented all these great songs.
The technical and visual presentation of this show will awe and dazzle you. You must just get down to Bay Street Theater and see the magic of Mike Billing’s technology knowledge added to this show. This production is totally of the highest Broadway quality and value.
Veanne Cox as “Frau Blücher” is simply great. She wonderfully moved about the stage, captivating everyone. The audience caught every subtle comment, facial gesture, and movement Ms. Cox made. Sometimes, they even cheer and applaud right in the middle of the scene. Her performance alone is worth the price of the ticket. As is the star performance of Matthew Hydzik as “Dr. Frederick Frankenstein.” He is fantastic. His singing voice is clear and pleasant to the ear. When he dances, he has certain Dick Van Dyck qualities, which is saying Mr. Hydzik can truly dance. He owned the stage throughout the production. His energy is contagious, and he shines and delivers big time.
James Romney as “Igor,” also delivers big-time. Mr. Romney captured the opening night crowd instantly as if it was his show. His tremendous performance on opening night received a special ovation. A real talent it seems Mr. Romney was born to play this role.
Then there is the performance of the multi-talented Sean Bell as “The Monster! Again, all the superlatives must be brought out to describe his performance, dancing, singing, owning the stage, and most of all, somehow charming the audience! The make-up job, along with his costume choices, is to be noted for merit.
Aaron Choi as the “Hermit,” brings a unique panache that will make you smile throughout the production. He moved about the stage beaming, singing and at time helping to produce some great laughs. Kyla Stone as “Inga,” displays both her singing and comedic talents. She has a certain physical presence that draws one into her ample talents.
The audience particularly enjoyed AlénaWatters as “Elizabeth Benning.” She received sincere ovations after her witty solo songs. The “Ensemble,” of Savannah Cooper, Bradley William Gibbins, Brady Miller and Linda Neel are excellent. They really added pizzaz and dynamic energy singing, dancing and playing various roles throughout the show.
A huge part of the success of this show has to be the team. Mike Billings does pure magic as the Scenic and Lighting Designer. Kudos to Eric Svejcar the Music Director. Also, a “job well done,” to Liz Printz-Hair/ Make-up Designer, Barbara Erin Delo-Costume Designer, Aaron Watson-Production Stage Manager, Joanna Lynne Staub-Sound Designer, Brad Peterson-Production Designer, Stuart Ross for Directing Concept, and Gerry McIntyre as the director.
The show will run until September 1. It is presented via Association with Berkshire Theater Group & Geva Theatre Music & lyrics by Mel Brooks. Book by Mel Brooks & Thomas Meehan. Original direction & choreography by Susan Stroman, Directed by Gerry McIntyre. For tickets and further information, visit https://www.baystreet.org/calendar/mel-brooks-young/
