Who’s Who in Frankenstein
A Character Guide to Liam Scarlett’s Frankenstein
Each character in Frankenstein comes alive through Scarlett’s evocative choreography, embodying the emotions, conflicts, and themes at the heart of Mary Shelley’s groundbreaking novel. This guide explores the key figures in Scarlett’s retelling, shedding light on their roles and significance within this dynamic interpretation of the classic tale.
victor frankenstein
A brilliant yet reckless scientist, Victor Frankenstein is consumed by the idea of creating life. His fixation alienates him from his loved ones and leads to devastating consequences. As his experiment spirals into unforeseen horror, Victor’s inner turmoil and descent into despair form the emotional core of the ballet.

elizabeth lavenza
Victor’s devoted fiancée, Elizabeth embodies love, innocence, and steadfastness. As we watch her grow from a girl in Act I into a woman in Act II, she serves as Victor’s emotional anchor, attempting to pull him back from his self-destructive path. However, she ultimately becomes a victim of his dark ambition.

the creature
Brought to life by Victor’s unnatural experiment, the Creature is both tragic and terrifying. Initially filled with childlike curiosity, it longs for acceptance but is met with fear and rejection. Consumed by loneliness and rage, the Creature turns to revenge, forcing Victor to confront the cost of his actions.

henry clerval
Victor’s closest friend, Henry Clerval, is a light-hearted persona who represents warmth and reason in contrast to Victor’s obsession. He provides companionship and emotional grounding, though he too is ultimately drawn into the tragedy caused by Victor’s ambition.

william frankenstein
Victor’s innocent younger brother, William, becomes an early casualty of the Creature’s wrath. His death marks a turning point, as Victor realizes the terrible reach of his experiment’s consequences.

justine moritz
A servant since childhood in the Frankenstein household, Justine grows up alongside Victor and Elizabeth and ultimately becomes the devoted governess of young William. Justine is falsely accused of William’s murder after the Creature plants a locket, belonging to William, in her pocket to frame her, leading to her execution despite her innocence. Her tragic fate highlights themes of injustice and the far-reaching destruction caused by Victor’s secrecy.
Liam Scarlett’s Frankenstein is onstage MAR 20–26 and APR 26–MAY 4