'Victor' examines humanity and monsters

FRIGHTENING FARE- James Castle Stevens stars in the latest production at the High Street Arts Center as Dr. Frankenstein in the thriller "Victor," set on the bleak shores of Scotland. The show opens tonight, Fri., Oct. 5. For more information, call (805) 529-8700.

The High Street Arts Center opens a new play, "Victor," by Alistair Faulkner and based on the novel "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley, tonight at 8 p.m. Fri., Oct. 5 at 45 E. High St., Moorpark.

The show runs through Nov. 3. Showtimes are 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, with 2 p.m. matinees on Sundays.

In the original tale, Victor Frankenstein discovered a way to animate dead tissue. He constructed a creature from body parts and brought it to life. The hideous thing turned lonely and murderous, then escaped.

Faulkner sets his version on a remote island at the northern tip of Scotland, where, in 1810, Victor thinks he has found sanctuary with the quietly adoring Agnes; her doctor brother, James; and James' lovely but conceited wife, Freya. The creature will find Victor here, and soon death will haunt a place where the tormented scientist had found abundant life.

Rolland Petrello directs. The cast includes James Castle Stevens, Will Shupe, Nancy Finn, Jenny Cariker, Seth Allen, Eric Harris and Elixeo Flores.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and students, and $8 for children 12 and under. Group discounts are available.

For more information or tickets, call the box office at (805) 529-8700.