By Nina Logan
Halloween”s most famous creatures and ghouls will make their stage debut performing “Hotel Frankenstein” at the Valley Center Playhouse.
Along with many others, a vampire, Egor and the Wolfman are mixed up in Dr. Frankenstein”s hunt to find a new brain for his monster. When he decides to turn his castle into a hotel to help his search, his only guests, the Woodknocker family, unknowingly are forced into the spooky antics.
For 23 of the 30 years Valley Center Playhouse has been running, “Hotel Frankenstein” and has distinguished itself as a Halloween tradition.
“It”s a fun play and the cast is great,” said Madeline Watkins of Orem, who has been a part of the production for 21 years.
Watkins, 82, said the good characters and fun keep her coming back year after year.
Kelly Garrison, a senior from Duluth, Ga., majoring in acting, has joined the cast of “Hotel Frankenstein” for the first time this year.
“What makes this production unique is that it”s definitely a full family affair,” she said. “With this show, it is very appropriate for anybody of any age. It”s the best family type activity because it appeals to not only college ages or adults, but also to children. It”s hilarious.”
It was nearly 27 years ago in Salt Lake City that Jody Renstrom, owner of Valley Center Playhouse, first came upon the story of “Hotel Frankenstein.” Renstrom loved the play written by local school teacher Michael Goodman and decided to bring it to her theater.
“It makes a wonderful date or evening out,” Renstrom said.
Mike Black, who both directs the production and plays the role of “Vlad,” called the performance a classic and a great family show.
“It”s uplifting,” Black said. “It”s an experience to experience.”
Performances run Thursdays through Saturdays and Mondays at 7:30 p.m. until November 1. Children 4 and up are welcome. In addition, a costume parade will be at each performance with prizes for the “best” and “scariest” costumes.
Tickets are $6 for the general public and $5 for students, children and senior citizens. A $25 family pass is also available. Valley Center Playhouse is located at 780 N. 200 E. in Lindon. For additional information about “Hotel Frankenstein” or to purchase tickets, call (801) 785-1186.
