Arts & Entertainment
Taking Flight Theatre's 'Frankenstein' Opens
This week's Spotlight takes a look at the Sterling-based thespian group.
Community stage performances offer affordable entertainment and an opportunity for people of all ages and skill levels to be involved in a collaborative effort to bring art to the mainstream. Taking Flight Theatre Company, based at Northern Virginia Community College in Sterling, has been bringing theater to Loudoun since 2004.
“We are all busy, working individuals, but we still find time to ensure that Northern Virginia has the opportunity to see live theater,” said Natalie Safley, managing director of Taking Flight Theatre Company.
Safley, who also is an assistant professor at Northern Virginia Community College, said the company provides a cultural opportunity for people beyond the city.
Find out what's happening in Ashburnwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
“People don’t have the time or luxury to travel to DC to see a show, so we are bringing quality theater out to the suburbs,” she said.
Taking Flight, comprised entirely of volunteers, produces three shows a year: two plays and one musical. The theater company’s niche is putting a twist on classic shows.
Find out what's happening in Ashburnwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
“We are trying to bring in the next generation of theatergoers and to give ongoing theatergoers something new to experience,” Safely said.
For example, the company’s production of Frankenstein, A New Musical – which starts tonight, June 3 – takes the classic Mary Shelley story and adapts to the present day. The monster is a flesh and blood character as opposed to the traditional Hollywood monster that we expect to see. The young scientist, Victor Frankenstein, creates someone whose thirst for revenge unravels into a tragic love story and exploration of humanity.
In addition to its regularly scheduled season, Taking Flight started a children’s theater. The first show debuts in August and the company is excited to expand its reach to an even wider audience.
There are also plenty of opportunities for members of the community to get involved. The company constantly seeks people to work on the tech crew, design costumes and sets, and audition for roles.
“If you don’t have experience, you can be taught. It’s a collaborative process,” Safley said.
Check the Patch calendar for Frankenstein dates and times. The show runs through June 18. ,
