Frankenstein | Topeka Civic Theatre

Show details

October 23, 2026

–

November 7, 2026

SYNOPSIS

by Nick Dear

Frankenstein by Nick Dear is a bold and compelling stage adaptation of Mary Shelly’s classic novel, known for its focus on the Creature’s perspective. The Creature is abandoned by his creator Victor Frankenstein shortly after being brought to life. As he navigates a world he doesn’t yet understand, he learns to speak, thinks for himself, and seeks to understand human relationships – only to be met with fear and rejection. Dear’s adaptation explores complex themes like parental neglect, scientific responsibility, and the nature of good and evil. This disturbing classic gothic tale thrills audiences and challenges the viewer to consider what it truly means to be human.

This adaptation of Frankenstein has never been produced by TCT or HHT.

Topeka Civic Theatre’s license to present Nick Dear’s version of FRANKENSTEIN from the novel by Mary Shelley is granted by Rosica Colin Limited, London.

CONTENT ADVISORY:
This play contains mature themes and simulates violence and sexual assault. The use of fog and flashing lighting effects will also be included in the production. Audience discretion is advised.

CO-PRODUCERS

Legacy
A2B Plumbing

Executive
Clayton Wealth Partners

Associate Co-Producers
Hall Commercial Printing
World Insurance

Lobby Experience
CoreFirst Bank & Trust

MEDIA SPONSORS

KMAJ MAJIC 107.7 – A Cumulus Station
WIBW-TV and wibw.com

AUDITIONS

Completed

TICKET DATES

Tuesday, September 8, 2026 – First day to receive mail in
Tuesday, September 29, 2026 – MAIL IN DEADLINE
Tuesday, October 6, 2026 – PHONE LINES OPEN TO REGULAR MEMBERS
Tuesday, October 13, 2026 – PHONE LINES OPEN TO GENERAL PUBLIC

Why did TCT choose this production of Frankenstein??

Here at TCT, we strive to challenge ourselves with complex material that will stretch the boundaries of traditional theatre. We share stories of human experiences – some are heartwarming and hilarious; however, others are dark and traumatic. We understand that this play is not for everyone, but we trust that our entire community will continue to support our mission to produce meaningful live theatre.

How was this production of Frankenstein planned responsibly?

All volunteers were required to review the Frankenstein script prior to auditioning. An intimacy coordinator advised the involved cast to ensure these scenes are safe and professional. The young actor has parental supervision within the cast and is removed during these certain scenes.

What is the suggested age requirement for Frankenstein?

This is not recommended for those under the age of 16. We encourage patrons to do their own research on the show and use their own judgement accordingly.

SHOW TIMES

THURSDAY
Doors Open: 6:00 pm
Curtain: 7:00 pm
We strongly recommend you arrive before 6:30 to place your preshow and intermission snack, beverage and dessert orders.
LaRocca’s pizza and pasta is available exclusively by pre-order. Place your preorder by 4:00 pm on the Wednesday before your reservation by calling the TCT Box Office at 785-357-5211.

LaRocca’s special pricing:
Small (10″) One-topping $11.00
Small (10″) Veggie/Deluxe/Meat Lovers $15.00
Pasta (Small) Spaghetti and meat sauce with 2 garlic rolls $15.00
Gluten free crust available for additional $2.25

FRIDAY & SATURDAY
Doors Open: 6:00 pm
Curtain: 7:30 pm
If you have dinner tickets, we recommend you arrive by 6:15 to have time to enjoy your dinner before the show starts. If you have non-dinner tickets, we strongly recommend you arrive before 7:00 to place your preshow and intermission snack, beverage and dessert orders.

SUNDAY
Doors Open: 1:00 pm
Curtain: 2:00 pm
We recommend you arrive before 1:30 to place your preshow and intermission snack, beverage and dessert orders.

LAUGH LINES – NOV 13 & 14
Doors Open: 7:00 pm
Curtain: 8:00 pm
Servers will be available throughout the show to take your snack, beverage and dessert orders. We recommend you arrive before 7:30 to park, pick up your tickets in the Box Office, and meet our hosts who will escort you to your seats in the Sheffel Theatre.
Pizza is available for Friday and Saturday performances through our catering partner. You must preorder your pizza order with our Box Office by 4:00 pm on the Thursday prior to your show. Intermission orders for pizza are not available at this time.

We will do our best to provide you outstanding service but if you arrive at, or later, than 15-minutes prior to curtain, we cannot guarantee we will be able to provide you pre-show beverage or food service.

Production Dates

Friday, October 23 – 7:30 PM (Dinner)
Saturday, October 24 – 7:30 PM (Dinner)
Thursday, October 29 – 7:00 PM (Non-Dinner)
Friday, October 30 – 7:30 PM (Dinner)
Saturday, October 31 – 7:30 PM (Dinner)

Sunday, November 1 – 2:00 PM (Matinee)
Thursday, November 5 – 7:00 PM (Non-Dinner)
Friday, November 6 – 7:30 PM (Dinner)
Saturday, November 7 – 7:30 PM (Dinner)
Sunday, November 8 – TBA 2:00 PM (Matinee)

Production Staff & Cast

STAFF & CREW

PRODUCTION STAFF

Director – Jason R. Smith
Stage Manager – Megan Green
Asst. Stage Manager – Matt Nusbaum

CAST

The Creature:  Adam Groves
Victor Frankenstein:  Devan Garcia
Clarice / Gretel: Roslind Finlay
Gustav / Servant 1:  Daniel Benson*
Klaus / Servant 2: Xzaviaro Hampton*
De Lacey:  Danny Lassley
Felix De Lacey:  Owen Tremblay
Agatha De Lacey:  Grace Thacker*
Female Creature: Bethany Groves
Elizabeth Lavenza:  Carmelle Garcia
Wilhelmina Frankenstein:  Lulu Benson-Ross
Monsieur Frankenstein:  Ben Stanton
Ewan / Man / Constable: Rob Banks
Rab / Client:  Tony Crawford*
Ensemble:  Marsue Payne*
*Denotes TCT Debut

SEASON MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE!