The monstrously fun new production of Young Frankenstein has opened at the Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester. We caught up with the brilliantly talented Rhiannon Chesterman, who takes on the role of the fabulously dramatic Elizabeth Benning.
From Mel Brooks’ legendary humour to belting out one of the most outrageous songs in musical theatre, Rhiannon gives us a glimpse behind the scenes of this hilarious horror-comedy musical.
Q1. Rhiannon, you’re about to bring the fabulous Elizabeth Benning to life in Young Frankenstein at Hope Mill Theatre — how would you describe her in three words?
Coquette
Self-indulgent
Fabulous
Q2. Young Frankenstein is such a cult comedy classic. What can audiences expect from this stage version, and what makes this production unique?
The Hope Mill Theatre is such a beautifully intimate theatre so this production differs to others that have gone before as it is on a smaller scale. Because of this, you really get to know the characters up close. The whole cast is so talented that this element is going to be thrilling.
Q3. Elizabeth has some iconic (and hilarious) musical moments — is there a number or scene you’re especially excited to perform?
Elizabeth is such a gift of a role and almost every time she’s on the stage she gets to do a show-stopping number. This makes it very difficult to choose! If you asked me yesterday, my favourite moment was ‘Surprise’. Elizabeth has been off stage for most of act one and this is her entrance into act 2. Today however, I’m loving ‘Deep Love’ which is a comedic version of a classic 11 o’clock number.
Q4. Mel Brooks’ comedy has such a specific tone. How are you finding the challenge of balancing the humour with the heart?
If you don’t know the story, I don’t want to give too much away, but Elizabeth has an unlikely relationship that blossoms. This is her moment to show heart but of course the genius of Mel Brooks has made every other line totally hilarious. It’s so well written that it lends itself to balancing the comedy and heart naturally & seamlessly.
Q5. The show opens at Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester this October. Have you performed there before, and what excites you most about working at this venue?
I have not performed at the Hope Mill Theatre before – this is my first time. I love Manchester so I’m really looking forward to visiting for a while. I love how intimate it’s going to be. It’s such a special show. It feels exciting and kind of exclusive to be sharing it with a boutique house.
Q6. You’ve played a wide range of roles across your career — what sets Elizabeth apart from other characters you’ve tackled so far?
Elizabeth is such a gift of a role – I am so enjoying playing her. Earlier in my career I did two Ken Ludwig plays. Lend Me A Tenor & The Fox on the Fairway. They are both farces and the tone of Elizabeth is similar to those, except this time I get to sing! And honestly, it has been a challenge! Her songs are all epic – I’m using my entire range in every song. It has been a welcome challenge however. My last couple of big shows were rock songs so it’s a joy to explore more classical musical theatre.
Q7. What’s your process when approaching a big comedic role like this? Are there any rituals or techniques you use to get into the right mindset?
I would love to say that I have a specific process to get into the right mindset, but I don’t really. It’s sounds weird but I just imagine Elizabeth in my mind for a minute and just go for it. Provided you have learnt the lines, the fun and comedy is free to develop every time you do it. I am not scientific when it comes to comedy. For me I just feel it. That’s not much use if you are trying to teach it but I think watching great comedic actors such as Julie Walters & Allison Janney has helped me to develop comic timing over the years.
Q8. If you could play any other character in Young Frankenstein for one night only — just for fun — who would it be and why?
Igor. He’s a hoot and the opportunities to be ridiculous are endless. Curtis is amazing and I love watching his character, especially when he’s not at the forefront of a scene. It’s genius.
Q9. Do you remember the moment you knew you wanted to pursue a career in musical theatre? Was there a show or role that lit the spark?
I saw Cats at the New London (now Gillian Lynne) Theatre when I was 10 and decided instantly that that’s what I was going to do. I’d always danced from a young age but when they were singing and dancing at the same time, I thought, yes that’s for me. I wanted to be Baby Griz, the little kitten, but I think I’d rather be be older Grizabella these days.
Q10. Finally, what advice would you give to young performers who dream of doing what you do?
Be kind & friendly. Be the sunshine in the room. People want to work with nice people. If you are interested in getting good at comedy, I would recommend watching the old TV programmes like Dinnerladies & Are You Being Served? I couldn’t get enough of them growing up and I think that’s why I love playing comedy roles today.
