MOSES LAKE — A classic story of love, pride and horror will take the stage as a living comic book at the Wallenstien Theater Oct. 18. Columbia Basin Allied Arts will present “Frankenstein: A Living Comic Book,” an adaptation of the 1818 novel “Frankenstein, or the Modern Prometheus” by Mary Shelley. 

"Frankenstein is the original science fiction novel, and we were amazed that it was created by a young woman of 18,” co-writer Craig Francis wrote in the show’s promotional materials. “It's such an integral part of pop culture that it was irresistible to do our own take on it, through comics and cartoons, which were my own introduction to sci-fi and horror. The comic book effects bring it instantly up to date, stylize the horror, and make it a ton of spooky fun.” 

A living comic book is kind of a hybrid between film and stagecraft, with live actors playing in front of drawn backgrounds projected on a screen behind them. The action is punctuated with sound effects and speech bubbles on the screen, to give the production the feel of a life-size graphic novel. 

The story takes place in our time, according to the show’s promotional material. A young graphic novelist named Mary discovers the journal of Dr. Victor Frankenstein and is drawn into his story of experiments to conquer death. In the process, she learns that we all have to face our fears, confronting modern problems like climate change, artificial intelligence, sexism and racism in the process. 

“Frankenstein: A Living Comic Book” is part of Columbia Basin Allied Arts’ Premier Series, now in its 48th season, according to the CBAA website. It’s suitable for the whole family, but there are thunder and flashing lights that may be frightening to small children, as well as talk of death and some mild violence. 

Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7. There will be a 10-minute intermission to stretch and get snacks, according to the CBAA website. Concessions from local producers include Moore Brewing Co. beer, RM Wineries wine, Cow Path Bakery cookies, Rowley Farms fruit snacks and Starving Farmer popcorn. 

“When we first started working on this adaptation, a friend and fan of the book told me, ‘Knowledge is knowing that Frankenstein is not the monster. Wisdom is knowing that Frankenstein is the monster,’ co-writer Paul Van Dyck wrote. “Our nameless creature has gotten a bad rap over the past 200 years. But it’s the creator of the creature that is as much to blame for all the trouble in this story. If we create out of ego and ambition it often has rotten results. But when we create out of love and altruism the results can ripple with positivity forever.” 

‘Frankenstein: A Living Comic Book’ 

Moses Lake 

Wallenstien Theater 

6989 College Parkway NE 

Doors open 6 pm.
Show starts 7 p.m. 

www.cba-arts.org