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At the weekend, I had the opportunity to visit Folkestone Live for the first time, which is a new arts festival in Kent, offering three days of comedy and theatre shows. My reason for attending was actually to see a preview of Tim Larkfield’s Edinburgh Fringe show ‘James Whale: Beyond Frankenstein’, which is heading to ZOO Southside. I recently interviewed Tim about his journey into the arts, this new piece of writing and a one person interpretation of Dickens’ ‘The Signalman’ which he is also taking to Edinburgh, so it was wonderful to finally be able to see the work live. Rather than a review, read on to find out more about the new play presented by Paragon Theatre Collective, which offers something new for film fanatics at this year’s festival.
Background
Described as a “one-person show that shines a light on [James Whale’s] life and work”, the one-person play centres on the 1930s Hollywood director from Dudley who was known for ‘Frankenstein’ and other classic horror films. It looks at James’ short but impactful time in Tinseltown, featuring various highs and lows. An inspiring man of the time, both creatively and in terms of confidence in his own sexuality, the material provides a fascinating insight into the professional life of the man behind ‘The Invisible Man’, ‘Showboat’ and various other films. Whilst his tenure in Hollywood was short, the openly gay Englishman from the Black Country achieved a lot in just over 10 years of filmmaking.
One-person format
The actor plays over 25 characters including the renowned director, from James’ family members to production crew and film stars. There are various accents and costume changes, but at its core it is a story about Hollywood and a reflection on the director’s career and sense of self.
What is refreshing is how it is a play focusing on James Whale, but the image of the man behind the films is generated through a combination of the actor’s interpretation of the creative and his interactions with others, as well as the films that he is known for. It is certainly a challenge to achieve all of this in 60 minutes and a Fringe length format, which is partly what makes the material standout within the festival programme.
Who is the play aimed at?
If you enjoy old horror films or are just fascinated by Hollywood throughout history, ‘James Whale: Beyond Frankenstein’ should definitely be on your shortlist for Edinburgh. I believe the underlying themes of sexuality also make it a positive story of self-identity, set during a time when there were many repercussions, both criminal and societal, just for embracing your true self.
Final countdown to Edinburgh
Artistically and logistically things will potentially change ahead of the Fringe, especially when Paragon Theatre Collective get settled into their venue. I look forward to hearing what audiences and fellow reviewers think of Tim’s new piece of writing when it opens in Edinburgh. You can catch the show at ZOO Southside, with performances starting at 18:45 from 2-25 August (excluding 12th and 19th). Head to the festival website to book tickets.
Thanks for reading my blog today.
Love Kat xxxx
*My ticket for James Whale: Beyond Frankenstein was gifted in exchange for show coverage.
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