The Donmar Warehouse launches its annual schools’ tour today with the world premiere of Frankenstein Adjusts His Ring Light (And Then Starts Dancing), a bold new play by award-winning writer Eve Leigh.
Developed in collaboration with young people and teachers, the production is directed by Anthony Lau and tailored specifically for 11–14-year-olds.
Since 2021, the Donmar has brought original theatre directly into schools across Camden and Westminster, reaching students who may be experiencing live performance for the first time.
This year’s tour is the most ambitious yet, engaging over 4,000 young people and working with 95% of local secondary schools.
Tim Sheader, Artistic Director, and Henny Finch, Executive Director, said:
“With the continued reduction in provision of high quality arts education in schools, taking shows directly into local secondary schools is more important than ever, and furthers our mission to build the audiences, artists and workforce of the future. It’s very exciting to have commissioned Frankenstein Adjusts His Ring Light (And Then Starts Dancing) specifically for, and in consultation with, an audience of 11–14 year olds. We’re very grateful for the generous support of Howdens Plc and Westminster Council.”
The play follows 13-year-old Vic, who uploads her late best friend Adam’s phone data to create an AI version of him. As the AI begins to spiral under the influence of toxic online communities, Vic must confront the consequences of her creation.
The cast includes Yanexi Enriquez as Vic, Issam Al Ghussain as Adam, and Rachael Spence as Julie.
The creative team features Madeleine Girling (Designer), Giles Thomas (Sound Designer), Yami Löfvenberg (Movement Director), and Shereen Ibrahim (Voice Coach), among others.
Eve Leigh’s previous work includes Midnight Movie (Royal Court), Wildfire Road (Sheffield Theatres), and The Trick (Bush Theatre). She is a recipient of the Berlin Theatertreffen Stückemarkt selection and the Sarah Award for Audio Fiction.
Frankenstein Adjusts His Ring Light (And Then Starts Dancing) continues the Donmar’s commitment to accessible, high-quality theatre for young audiences.
More information can be found here:
