Frankenstein at the National Theatre

Mary Shelly’s brilliantly romantic gothic sci-fi novel, Frankenstein, has been retold many times over since it was first published (anonymously) in 1818, but it has rarely been conveyed with the same skill as Shelly first delivered at the age of 18. However, the National Theatre will attempt to slip into the more sympathetic side of the equation with their production of Frankenstein.

Directed by award winning film director, Danny Boyle, the play opens on 22nd February 2010 and runs through to 17th April. Having directed the likes of Trainspotting, Shallow Grave and The Beach, you could argue that he’s got the experience to bring such a significant novel to life.

The cast includes Benedict Cumberbatch, who played Sherlock Holmes superbly in the BBC’s Sherlock, and Jonny Lee Miller (Trainspotting & Hackers), who will alternate between the lead roles of Frankenstein and the creature over different nights, making the show the first play I might want to see twice, two nights in a row.

With such a great story, director and cast, Frankenstein at the National Theatre is one of next year’s best theatre prospects. If the production values match this potential, then it’s hard to see it being anything but brilliant too.

Tickets range from £12 to £45.