OCC Repertory Theatre Company presents “Doctor Frankenstein”



(TOMS RIVER, NJ) — The Ocean County College Repertory Theatre Company presents Doctor Frankenstein, a new play by George Allison that asks the question, “What if Mary Shelley got it wrong… on purpose?” Performances take place in the Black Box Theater at the Grunin Center for the Arts from Thursday, October 26 through Sunday, November 5, 2023.

Unlike most versions of the Frankenstein story, Doctor Frankenstein connects us to the doctor whose legacy and livelihood were ruined by Mary Shelley’s book. It is still a tale of horror and madness, but one made more frightening by its connection to reality. 

His life’s work laid to waste by Mary Shelley’s vindictive novel, Dr. Victor Frankenstein summons an audience of ghosts into an imagined operating theatre to present his side of the story in a bid to salvage his name and reputation. Mary Shelley said she created her tale “from a dream” but Victor believes there was much more reality involved – HIS reality. What was a fictional exploit for millions sent Victor down a spiral path of destruction in a story untold… until now.

The cast includes Justine Basquill (Elizabeth), Evan Williamson (Lind/Creature), Brendan Keffner (Dr. Allyn), Bridget Magnusson (Nurse Brown), Emily Seningen (Mary Shelley), Nicholas Falzone (Constable/Butler/Orderly 1), and Zach Zabarsky (Messenger/Policeman/Orderly 2).

Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors. There is a $3 processing fee added per ticket. Tickets are available for purchase online. Performances take place Thursday, October 26, 2023 at 7:30pm; Friday, October 27, 2023 at 7:30pm; Saturday, October 28, 2023 at 7:30pm; Sunday, October 29, 2023 at 2:00pm*; Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 7:30pm; Friday, November 3, 2023 at 7:30pm; Saturday, November 4, 2023 at 7:30pm; and Sunday, November 5, 2023 at 2:00pm. * Audience members are invited to a free Talkback after the matinee performance on October 29, 2023. The Cast, Director, and Playwright look forward to your questions about the performance, staging, set, costumes, plot, and more!

The Jay and Linda Grunin Center for the Arts, located on the campus of Ocean County College in Toms River, is a performing arts center dedicated to providing art and entertainment to Ocean County and the Jersey Shore.

Featuring premier acts from across the globe, the Grunin Center’s intimate venue allows patrons to experience once-in-a-lifetime performances from celebrated artists, hometown musicians, and unique entertainers. Music performances in all genres, theatre, film, and dance make their way to the Grunin Center stage each season.

The Grunin Center is also the home to young performers from various educational performing arts organizations, including Ocean County College students from the performing arts and fine arts programs, and the Ocean County and NJ State Teen Arts Festivals. Our Art Gallery highlights local artists by displaying several collections throughout the year. Additionally, the Garden State Philharmonic is the Orchestra-in-Residence.