IT’S the ultimate irony – only a blind man sees The Creature as a human being in Frankenstein.
The rest of the world in which he strives to survive sees him as a freak, incapable of thought or feeling and the children he comes into contact with pelt him with stones.
Sadly, we still live in a society obsessed with appearances which gives Mary Shelley’s classic chiller a resonance that still rings true today.
This timeless tale also offers a salutary reminder, if it was needed, of scientists trying to ‘play God.’
In 30 years of reviewing amateur theatre I can’t remember a performance as deeply affecting as that of Rhys Nuttall who plays The Creature.
Now I challenge anyone in the audience not to be moved by Nuttall, as he totters to his feet in the opening scene and begins a life of unmitigated torment and rejection.
It may only be January but I can say this performance will not be bettered on the amateur stage for many years to come, for both its searing intensity and unbridled physicality.
The scenes in which The Creature learns to speak and read and appreciate the great works of literature thanks to the patient and kindly De Lacey, his only friend in the world are beautifully played by Nuttall and Hugh Everett are perfectly played.
This exceptional and deeply disturbing production by Barry Purves transports us to a world that whips away our collective comfort blanket, a world where the sun never seems to shine. Bad productions just aren’t in this man’s DNA, are they?
Nick Dear’s adaptation refreshes Shelley’s wonderful novel and while it gives the original a contemporary feel it also remains faithful to it.
The production contains a very disturbing scene of sexual violence.
You simply must not miss this production which will move you and scare you. But the scariest thing for me was how people reacted to The Creature, for me that was the truly monstrous thing.
Once again the Garrick delivers – and then some. Quite brilliant.
Until January 22. The box office is on 0161 928 1677 or www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk
Star rating - *****