A.B.L.E.—Artists Breaking Limits & Expectations—a Chicago-based nonprofit that creates theatre and film for, with, and by individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) 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 run-down punk club called The Arctic. Music journalist Roberta Walton (played by Ryan Foley) is on site to cover the closing of the club, but instead finds a disoriented Victor Frankenstein (played by Marissa Bloodgood and Andrew Kosnik) 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 Frankenstein's memories to life. The production blends music, movement, and scenes devised by the group into a powerful exploration of ambition, isolation, and the balance between the head and the heart. 

Writer and co-director Lawrence Kern, anchored this version of Frankenstein in the punk world to honor the rebellious spirit of the disability community. "Most people have a very clear picture in their head of what this story looks like with green makeup and neck bolts," says Kern. "We always want to challenge assumptions at A.B.L.E., to surprise our audiences, and leave room for our actors to put their own spin on things."

Through the 10-week rehearsal process, Kern and co-director Katie Yohe led a highly collaborative process that included actors developing their own choreography, infusing personal reflections and storytelling into the script, and developing scenes in the manner that best suited each individual performer. The result is a deeply personal production. "The Creature is really misunderstood and I know how that feels," says actor Zach Wandel. "When you move through the world with a disability, people treat you like a kid. And when you're an artist, like me, people don't take you seriously, or think your art is less than. But we deserve a chance." 

Before the show on Saturday April 26th, the public is invited to participate in a free 75-minute interactive workshop with the ensemble to learn more about how A.B.L.E. developed this adaptation. Audiences can experience some of the games and activities A.B.L.E. used to bring their ideas to the stage, get a touch tour of key costume pieces and props, and try A.B.L.E.'s signature "dropping in" method. This exclusive opportunity is only available to 20 ticket holders - space can be reserved when purchasing tickets.

A.B.L.E. is committed to ensuring everyone feels they belong in the theatre. In addition to supporting disabled actors onstage and backstage, all 3 performances include numerous accessibility supports for audience members of all ages and abilities. Open captioning is integrated into the design of the show. All performances are relaxed, and audience members will receive a social story before the show to help audience members know what to expect from their trip to the theatre. The performance on April 27th will be dual ASL interpreted. Yohe says,  "We hope we can set an example for our community of what true inclusion looks like both onstage and off."

Performances:

Friday April 25 at 7pm
Saturday April 26 at 2pm (free pre-show workshop at 10:30am)
Sunday April 27 at 2pm (ASL interpreted)

Run-time approximately 90 minutes

Chicago Shakespeare's Courtyard Theater
800 East Grand Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611

Tickets: Pay-what-you-can general admission ranging from $15-$45
Online: chicagoshakes.com/frankenstein
Phone: 312.595.5600
In person: at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater Box Office

Accessibility at all performances:

• Open captioning
• Relaxed performance including a designated movement zone
• Sensory support tools
• Wheelchair Access
• Masks are required for all attendees out of consideration for our immunocompromised community members

Frankenstein is sponsored by Charcoalblue. A.B.L.E.'s 2024-2025 Season is partially supported by The Arts Work Fund for Organizational Development, The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events, FunFund, Fs Foundation, The Illinois Arts Council, The LaChapelle Family Foundation, The Paul M. Angell Family Foundation, The Poor Handmaids of Jesus Christ Ministry Fund, The National Endowment for the Arts, and generous individuals like you!

ABOUT A.B.L.E.

A.B.L.E. - Artists Breaking Limits & Expectations - is celebrating their 9th anniversary of creating theatre and film for, with, and by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Whether in person or online, all A.B.L.E. programs strive to foster agency, and nurture lifelong skills like communication, collaboration, and creativity. A.B.L.E.'s ensembles have produced more than 30 projects for the stage and screen, ranging from original work devised by the group, to Shakespearean classics, to award-winning feature films. A.B.L.E. also shares their unique approach for creative arts programming through workshops and residences with schools, community centers, and other organizations that serve people with disabilities, and also disability inclusion training for businesses. By placing disability in the spotlight, A.B.L.E. strives to shift societal preconceptions, and build more inclusive, empathetic communities.  Watch past shows, meet the team, and go behind the scenes at ableensemble.com

ABOUT CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE THEATER

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. www.chicagoshakes.com.