Artwork by Jana Ajam
- CAST -
James Hunter as The Creature
James is currently Head of Performing Arts at a school in Coventry. He is a graduate of Theatre and Professional Practice at Coventry University.
He has recently taken part in community theatre projects such as the Belgrade Ensemble and Beauty and the Beast at the Albany Theatre.
Daniel Peckett as Victor Frankenstein
Daniel studied Acting at Birmingham Ormiston Academy and is a Drama graduate from De Montfort University. Daniel has acted in numerous plays since the age of 14.
His acting credits include: Oliver Twist, Henry V, His Dark Materials, Never the Sinner and The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui.
Daniel has also directed productions such as Into the Breeches, Guilty Secret and The Wizard of Oz.
Gemma Middleton as Elizabeth Lavenza/Klaus
Originally from Wellingborough in Northamptonshire, and now a long-term resident of Coventry for over a decade, Gemma has nurtured a passion for performance from an early age. Inspired by her dad’s own love of acting, this enthusiasm grew steadily throughout childhood and into formal education.
Studying Drama and Theatre Studies up to A‑Level, Gemma developed a range of performance and backstage skills while taking part in numerous school productions. Notably, Gemma portrayed Mrs Dumpton in The Terrible Fate of Humpty Dumpty, a hard‑hitting drama that explores bullying, peer pressure, and the tragic consequences that can unfold. This challenging role strengthened Gemma’s interest in character‑driven storytelling and socially resonant work.
Further credits include serving as stage manager and puppeteer for Little Shop of Horrors, and ensemble performances in Bugsy Malone and Disco Inferno, each contributing to Gemma gaining hands-on experience in musical and technical theatre. With a background in both performance and production, Gemma continues to channel a lifelong love for the craft into every creative performance.
Chris Arnold as De Lacey/Ewan
Chris has been involved in theatre for many years; he is a regular face within the Coventry Theatre circuit and has played dame at the Albany Theatre more years than he cares to remember.
Chris has performed at many of the region’s theatres including the RSC’s Courtyard Theatre, the Belgrade Theatre and, of course, here at the Albany.
Some of his most acclaimed performances include Colonel Pickering in My Fair Lady, Doc in West Side Story, Nathan Detroit in Guys and Dolls, Mr Humphries in Are You Being Served? and Eric from John Godber’s Bouncers, which he performed at the Edinburgh fringe.
As a director, Cinderella, West Side Story, Fame, Cabaret, Sweet Charity Back to the Eighties and Eurobeat are amongst his most memorable productions.
He says that being part of ACT in this new development at the Albany Theatre is exciting and he feels privileged to be working with such a talented company and being part of the Albany’s first in house community production.
Carmelo Infantino as Gustav/Rab
This is Carmelo’s first venture into theatre, and jumping straight into Frankenstein felt like a fitting way to start.
Carmelo has always enjoyed creative challenges, and when the chance came up to get involved, he decided it was time to try something new.
He is looking forward to exploring the world of the story and being part of such an iconic production.
Hayley Barnsley as Clarice/Gretel
Hayley Barnsley was born into a theatrical family, with a ballerina mother & musician father.
Whilst growing up in Coventry, she joined Y.O.G at the age of 15 & performed in the chorus of The Boyfriend. She then went on to perform as Ado Annie in Oklahoma, the Musical Songbook in Triplets, and Miss Hannigan in Annie.
She has recently returned to her hometown, having spent 40 years away, deciding to become part of the new company A.C.T.
Hayley works in retail, has 2 adult daughters, is involved in parrot rescue and lives with her 2 dogs and an African Grey.
Eleanor Ashfield as Agatha/Servant 1
Eleanor is a recent graduate of the University of Chichester with a degree in Musical Theatre (Cabaret), she is delighted to be returning to work with this theatre after performing in “Beauty and the Beast” over the Christmas season.
During the day, she teaches in primary schools, sharing her passion for performance with young people.
They are thrilled to be part of such a wonderful community and excited to help bring something new and fresh to the stage.
Emmanuel Chiazim as William/Felix/Servant
Emmanuel Chiazam makes his theatre debut in this production of Frankenstein. In the show, he portrays multiple roles including Felix, William, and a Servant. This marks Emmanuel’s first time performing on stage, an experience that has strengthened his passion for storytelling, character work, and live performance. Emmanuel is an aspiring actor and director who is deeply interested in the creative process behind theatre and film. He hopes to continue developing his craft, exploring complex characters, and eventually creating and directing his own productions. Emmanuel is excited to begin his journey in the performing arts and looks forward to many more opportunities to grow and collaborate within the theatre community
Adam Hisaund as Client/Constable/Servant 2
Mike Ramsey as Monsieur Frankenstein
- Creative Team -
Director - Alex Shinnick
Training: Coventry University; East 15 Acting School; University of Warwick.
Alex is a Performing Arts Teacher based in Solihull and works as both an actor and director.
Previous theatre credits include: Carnival of the Animals (The Fabularium), War of the Worlds (Belgrade Theatre, as part of the Belgrade Ensemble), A Christmas Carol (M&M Theatrical Productions), Teatrino (Educo, Italy), and Daimler Powerhouse: The War Years (Imagineer Productions).
Other credits include: Choreographer on A Midsummer Night’s Rave (The Arches, Putney); Co-Director/Choreographer on Spring Awakening (Edinburgh Fringe); Assistant Director on Sparky the Elf and the Secret Toyshop (Queen’s Theatre Hornchurch), Life Is a Dream (East 15 Acting School) and Godiva Rocks (Belgrade Theatre); and Assistant Director/Choreographer on Under Milk Wood (Coventry University).
It has been a privilege to direct the first ACT production. The cast have worked so hard to bring this electrifying story to life!
Assistant Director - Olivia Marie
Olivia Marie is a Coventry-based theatre maker. After graduating from Coventry University in Theatre and Professional Practice, Olivia has been working as a performer, director and technician across multiple projects.
Notably, Olivia co-directed the first public run of The Allesley Silas with Nick Walker in 2021 and oversaw the second run of it at the Belgrade Theatre.
Olivia has a passion for creating theatre that is fun for people of all ages to enjoy and has worked with lots of community actors to introduce them to the world of theatre.
As a theatre maker with a disability, Olivia aims to make work that is accessible, putting inclusivity and representation at the forefront.
Costume Designer- Chloe McConnell
Chloe McConnell (Jacqule) is a self-taught fashion designer and maker with a strong focus on garment creation, alteration, and hands-on theatrical work. They have experience designing and constructing clothing and accessories from concept through to final performance, with a particular interest in character-driven design and practical craftsmanship.
Alongside fashion, they regularly create props and wearable pieces, bringing a maker’s eye for detail and texture to every project. Frankenstein at the Albany Theatre marks another opportunity for them to combine storytelling and construction within a live performance setting.
Costume Assistant - Maria Owen
Glad Rags Fancy Dress, owned by Maria Owen, is a sell-and-hire costume shop based at Coombe Abbey. The business offers an extensive range of costumes, wigs, accessories and authentic medieval attire.
Glad Rags Fancy Dress is proudly advertised as the primary costume provider for medieval banquets held at Coombe Abbey hotel, supplying period costumes for all ages and sizes. Most recently, the company provided medieval outfits featured on Celebrity Masterchef, filmed at Coombe Abbey, where the costumes were showcased by both the hosts and guests.
Producer - Neera Cheung
Warwick Art Centre Student Shows:
Hedda Gabler (Warwick Art Centre), The Accidental Death of an Anarchist (Warwick Art Centre), Broken Butterfly (Warwick Art Centre), Can you teach me how to breathe (Warwick Art Centre), The Wolves (Warwick Art Centre), Electra (Warwick Art Centre), Godspell (Warwick Art Centre), Duchess of Malfi (Warwick Art Centre)
Professional Shows (Intern):
13 Going on 30 – The Musical (Manchester Opera House)
Set Designer - Dan Tilley
Dan trained in the UK and has worked on various different genres of production in some of the UK’s leading theatres. Dan is a member of the Association of Production Lighting Designers, Association of British Theatre Technicians and is represented by Red Talent Management. Please contact Dan via DTlightingdesign@icloud.com
Lighting credits: “Beauty and The Beast” The Albany Theatre 2025 , “Alice in Wonderland” The Albany Theatre 2024, “The Bear That Went to War” The Albany Theatre 2024, “Oliver Twist” The Albany Theatre 2023, “A Christmas Carol” The Albany Theatre 2021-2022, “Wind In The Willows” Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Sorcerer” Castle Theatre 2017, Gilbert and Sullivan’s “ HMS Pinafore” Castle Theatre 2017, “Alice and Wonderland” Castle Theatre 2016, “Jurassic Adventure” UK National Tour, “So You Think You’re A Super Hero” Castle Theatre 2015, “Holocaust Memories” Castle Theatre 2015, “West End To Broadway” The Panto Company 2006, “The Freddy Starr Show” Blackpool Pier 2004.
Live music credits include: “Rock Your Age” Castle Theatre 2014-2016, “Dreadzone” Castle Theatre 2014 & 2016, “The Specials” Castle Theatre 2015, “Badmanners” Castle Theatre 2015 and Assistant LD for “The Selecta” Castle Theatre 2015.
Set Design Credits: “Alice in Wonderland” The Albany Theatre 2024, “Oliver Twist” The Albany Theatre 2023, “A Christmas Carol” The Albany Theatre 2022 and 2021, “The Snow Queen” The Albany Theatre 2020.
Production Manager- Abbie Drudge
Abbie Drudge is the Deputy Technical Manager at the Albany Theatre who, quite literally, fell into the world of Stage Management.
Previous Stage Management Credits Include:
“Beauty and The Beast” – Stage Manager (on the book) – The Albany Theatre 2025
“Alice In Wonderland” – Deputy Stage Manager – The Albany Theatre 2024
“Oliver Twist” – Deputy Stage Manager – The Albany Theatre 2023
“A Christmas Carol” – Deputy Stage Manager – The Albany Theatre 2022
Abbie is very grateful to be given the opportunity to take on the role of Production Manager.
Composer - Nathan de Broize King
Nathan de Broize-King is a composer, accordionist, keyboard player and songwriter. He was the winner of the City of Culture Orchestra Competition in 2021. Nathan performs with the bands The Upsiders, Sunny Side Up, and Tiago & The Amigos. He studied composition at Coventry University, graduating with First Class Honours before completing a Master’s degree in composition. Nathan is delighted to contribute his music to this production.
Additional Composer - Adrian 'Febs' Fairbairn
Lighting Designer - Adam Blake
Sound Designer - Charlie Davis
- Back Stage Team -
Stage Manager - Abbie Drudge
Assistant Stage Manager - Sara Jennings
Assistant Stage Manager - Adrian 'Febs' Fairbairn
Production Electricians - Adam Blake and Neil Plastow
Video and Projection Design - Charlie Davis, Abbie Drudge and Chris Gernon
Sound Operator - Charlie Davis
Sound Number Two - Josh Smith
Stage Crew - Paddy Reddan, Joy Tandi, Mike Smith, Cris Li
Fly Men - Paddy Reddan, Adrian 'Febs' Fairbairn
The Albany Theatre Technical Department wishes to thank its dedicated team of Technical Volunteers. Our volunteers offer their time and always show great skill and dedication in assisting The Albany Theatre produce ambitious works that punch above their weight.
Technical Department Volunteers:
Adrian “Febs” Fairbairn, Hilary Folkes, Karl Griffin, Pete Marsden, Tracy Marsden, Steve McDonald, Neil Plastow, Charlotte Plastow, Keith Williams, Ben Williams, Leigh Cooper & family, Cris Li, Bea Smith, David Flynn, Josh Smith, Paddy Reddan, Joy Tandi, Adam Hisaund and Mike Smith.
If you think that you could aid The Albany Theatre Technical Team and would like to find out more about what opportunities that The Technical Department can offer you, please get in touch with us.
Albany Theatre special thanks to...
The Albany Volunteer Team – the life and blood of the theatre and the Albany Technical Volunteer Team, the unseen beating heart of the Albany Theatre’s technical operation. Their dedication and hard work is a constant in our endeavours.