Interview with Jessica Martin, Young Frankenstein
Conducted by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic
From the minds behind the record-smashing Broadway hit The Producers comes the monstrously funny musical Young Frankenstein. Penned by legendary comedian Mel Brooks, the show makes its regional premiere this autumn at the Hope Mill Theatre. With direction and choreography by Nick Winston, we caught up with Jessica Martin to learn more about this daring new production.
1. To start with - I’d love to know what is your first and most memorable trip to the theatre?
I remember my Mum taking me to see the musical “Sweet Charity” in the West End when I was six years old. It was inspirational. I thought the theatre with its darkness and magical lights was thrilling, the actress playing Charity (Gretchen Weiler) was mesmerising. I wanted to become a performer and go on the stage from that day on.
2. For those who haven’t seen Young Frankenstein before - can you tell us a little bit about the story?
The story is about the grandson of Doctor Frankenstein – Frederick Frankenstein- who is ashamed of his ancestor’s dark creations. On learning about his inheritance of his grandfather’s estate, he travels to Transylvania. There he meets Igor and Inga who with Frau Blucher, the housekeeper of the Frankenstein castle, help Frederick reconnect with his true Frankenstein identity. Mayhem and horror ensue!
3. Are there any important themes on which Young Frankenstein touches on in the show which may not be so obvious but are crucial to the plot?
This is a musical comedy where ultimately the themes of being true to yourself and pursuing and finding happiness work out in the end.
4. How did you begin creating your role of Frau Blücher and have any of the previous roles in your career helped to shape them at all?
I started off my career in showbusiness as an impressionist so playing a character with an accent has always been a particular skill set. In the case of Frau Blucher, I have played two characters with a ‘Teutonic’ flavour before – both villains in pantomime. I played Countess Von Winklebottom in “Goldilocks” at Richmond Theatre and Demon Vanity in “Mother Goose” at the Everyman Theatre.
5. Did you feel any pressure to honour Cloris Leachman’s iconic performance from the film?
I have definitely drawn on Cloris Leachman’s wonderful screen portrayal. Her stoney faced composure and monotone voice were a good starting point!
6. Mel Brooks’ humour is very popular with audiences, especially with The Producers transferring to the West End. What do you think it is about this style of humour which makes it so iconic and so special?
Mel Brooks humour is subversive, fearless and so clever it transcends the passing trends. He is carrying on the legacy of classic vaudeville and Broadway in his routines and musical style which still appeals to audiences of today.
7. What has been the most challenging aspect of developing this show for audiences so far?
The challenge for this production has been recreating the staging for a smaller theatre. This has been carried out with amazing ingenuity thanks to Nick Winston’s great staging and the versatile set design by Sophia Pardon.
8. You are starring alongside a great cast for this production, what was the dynamic like in the rehearsal room and what has that process been like?
The dynamic in the rehearsal room was one of intense professional focus with a lot of fun. Hard to believe but true. We all get on exceptionally well!
9. What song is your favourite in Young Frankenstein and why?
My favourite song is “Deep Love” which is the only love ballad in the show. It’s really haunting! It epitomises what makes Mel Brooks songs so wonderful… extremely funny lyrics set to a catchy tune.
10. Finally, why should people visit to see the show in Manchester this Autumn?
People need pure entertainment in these dark times. I guarantee that’s what you’ll get in monster size portions if you come to see “Young Frankenstein” the musical.
Young Frankenstein plays at Hope Mill Theatre from 10 October to 30 November 2025.
