How far would you go to chase a dream?
A.B.L.E. is thrilled to return to Chicago Shakespeare Theater with a re-imagining of the gothic classic Frankenstein running April 25-27, 2025.
The production will transform the Upstairs Studio into a punk club called The Arctic. Music journalist Roberta Walton is on site to cover the closing of the club, but instead finds a disoriented Victor Frankenstein and a much more interesting story! The neurodiverse ensemble - composed of 9 actors with varying disabilities and a team of facilitators - will play multiple characters as they bring Doctor Frankenstein’s memories to life. This original adaptation blends music, movement, and scenes devised by the group into a personal and provocative exploration of ambition, isolation, and the balance between the head and the heart.
All tickets are general admission.
ABLE is committed to removing barriers, and that includes ensuring our work is financially accessible for everyone who wants to attend. Tickets for this event are pay-what-you-can; pick the pricing tier that works for you:
$15 - I am ABLE to connect - this level represents ABLE’s commitment to making the arts accessible for all.
$30 - I am ABLE to contribute - this level helps offset crucial production costs like props, costumes, and rehearsal space.
$45 - I am ABLE to create - this level represents the true cost of A.B.L.E.’s programming. By purchasing a ticket at this level, you help to provide access to the arts for those in need.
Can’t attend live? That’s okay! Performances will be available to stream On Demand from ableensemble.com/athome later this year
Accessibility AT THIS PERFORMANCE
Open captioning
Dual ASL interpretation
Relaxed performance, including a designated movement zone, and sensory support tools
Wheelchair Access
Masks required for all attendees out of consideration for our immunocompromised community members
To learn more about getting to Chicago Shakespeare Theater and what to expect at this performance, click here for a social story.
Content Warnings: Frankenstein contains scenes depicting bullying, threats of violence, and death. The production design includes recorded music and projection.
Cast and Crew
Co-Directed By: Lawrence Kern & Katie Yohe
The Ensemble: Colleen Altman, Marissa Bloodgood, Rachel Buchanan, Benjamin Collins, Kara Davidson, Ryan Foley, Erin Harvey, Jo Jennings, Andrew Kosnik, Matthew La Chapelle, Erin Nishida, Zachary Wandel
Pre-Production Photos by Joe Mazza/Brave Lux
Frankenstein is sponsored by:
A.B.L.E.’s 2024-2025 season has been partially supported by:
And by generous individuals like you!
About our Producing Partner
A Regional Tony Award recipient, Chicago Shakespeare Theater produces a bold and innovative year-round season that includes Shakespeare, original plays, musicals, family programming, and international theatrical events. CST is committed to serving as a cultural center across its three stages—the 700+ seat Yard, 500-seat Jentes Family Courtyard Theater, and the 200-seat Carl and Marilynn Thoma Theater Upstairs as well as in classrooms, neighborhoods, and venues around the world. CST has a deep commitment to education and lifelong learning with robust programming for students, teachers, and lifelong learners, and engagement with communities across the city. Onstage, in classrooms and neighborhoods across the city, and in venues around the world, Chicago Shakespeare is a multifaceted theatre—inviting audiences, artists, and community members to share powerful stories that illuminate the complexities, ambiguities, and wonders of our world. chicagoshakes.com
