Monsters of the Villa Diodati
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Music by Matt Conner
Book & Lyrics by Stephen Gregory Smith SynopsisMary Shelley sits down at her writing desk to compose the forward to the 1831 edition of Frankenstein; or, the Modern Prometheus. In assembling her memories of the creation of her famous monster, Mary also conjures figures from her past, all of whom have their own recollection of the summer of 1816. We are transported back 15 years, when Mary and her lover Percy Shelley have fled to Europe with her stepsister Claire Clairmont in town. On the stormy shores of Lake Geneva, the threesome encounter Lord Byron and his personal physician John Polidori, in exile from the conservative moral attitudes of England.
Characters
LORD BYRON (20s) Rock Baritenor. The famous and infamous poet, sexy and arrogant.
MARY SHELLEY (20s) Soprano with pop mix. Young writer struggling to find her own voice. Also plays Mary as an older woman remembering the events at the Villa Diodati. PERCY SHELLEY (20s) Baritone. Sensitive and eager young poet. CLAIRE CLAIRMONT (20s) Belter with pop mix and light soprano. Beautiful and opportunistic half-sister to Mary. JOHN POLIDORI (20s) Rock Tenor. Byron’s personal physician, eccentric and tormented. |
Reviews
"With its vibrant cast, electric visuals, and thought-provoking themes, Monsters of the Villa Diodati is a must-see for fans of Gothic literature and anyone who appreciates an intimate theatrical experience." - Broadway World
Monsters of the Villa Diodati delivers a powerful spark to all of the senses, leaving behind a subtle reminder of the potential monsters within us all. Do not miss it! - DC Metro Theater Arts "Conner’s score flirts with camp in its strutting, Jaggerlike Byron, played with devilish screeches by a leering Ludwig." "introspective, powerful ballads dominate as these historical figures grapple with a variety of urges and temptations." -The Washington Post |
Pictured: Susan Derry, Catherine Purcell, David Landstrom, Alan Naylor, Sam Ludwig.
Photo by Keith Waters (kxphotography)
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Pictured: Alan Naylor and Susan Derry. Photo by Keith Waters (kxphotography)
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