Frankenstein

Portsmouth-based theatre company Dramatis Personae bring their own version of Mary Shelley's classic novel to the stage, putting a new spin on the story.

The tale has been taken out of the nineteenth century and relocated to Nazi Germany in the late Thirties.

"There are many symbols and messages in the story that relate directly to the twisted Nazi cause," says director Nick Scovell, who also adapted the production.

The story follows the ambitious young Victor Frankenstein, who conquers the secrets of life itself and creates a man in what he thinks is the image of human perfection.

Unlike typical versions of this story, his creation is not a freakishly ugly monster.

It is physically perfect, eloquent and powerful but it is driven by a terrible desire, which leads it to destroy everything that Victor holds dear.

New Theatre Royal, Portsmouth, October 16-19. Performances: 7.45pm. Tickets: £7.50. Box office: 023 9264 9000.