While the city of Bath is abuzz with celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen’s birth, it’s important to remember that it is also the birthplace of another monumental work of literature: Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Although Austen’s legacy dominates headlines with its array of TV shows and film reruns, Bath holds a unique place in literary history as the city where Shelley partly penned her legendary gothic novel.
Despite Jane Austen’s well-known disapproval of Bath during her lifetime, tourists continue to flock here, eager to experience the charm of its regency balls and promenades. Yet, overshadowed by Austen’s fame, the tale of Frankenstein deserves equal recognition. This world-famous monster story, revered globally and translated into countless languages, actually has roots right here in Bath.
An exciting highlight in the city is the House of Frankenstein museum located on Gay Street. This eerie and atmospheric venue celebrates Mary Shelley’s masterpiece with an immersive experience filled with spooky sounds and ghostly effects, perfect for fans and newcomers alike.
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Adding to the excitement, a fresh adaptation of Frankenstein is set to debut on Netflix later this year. Closer to home, Bath’s Ustinov Studio will stage Frankenstein (On a Budget), a one-man comedic performance by Tom Fox, running from Thursday, June 12, to Saturday, June 14. This show is recommended for audiences aged 14 and up and offers a hilarious twist on the classic tale.
Teaming up with the House of Frankenstein, Tom Fox delivers a musical satire that playfully parodies the original Boris Karloff films and the cult favorite Rocky Horror Show. Complete with whimsical music, intentionally kitschy backdrops, weather-themed jokes, cheap cardboard props, and a dizzying array of hats, this performance honors Shelley’s original story while providing loads of laughs.
So while Jane Austen’s milestone celebrations continue, don’t miss the chance to explore the fascinating legacy of Frankenstein—a groundbreaking story born right here in Bath and celebrated through a new movie, an interactive museum, and a one-of-a-kind theatrical show this June.
Frankenstein (On a Budget) runs at the Ustinov Studio in Bath from June 12 to June 14.