Globalstage representatives were in Louisville Oct. 29 and 30 during Stage Ones production of "Frankenstein" at the Kentucky Center for the Arts. The company will return Dec. 29 and 30 for "Pinocchio," said Globalstage marketing director Abbi Kaplan. Globalstage uses a British Broadcasting Corp. film crew from London, England.

The "Frankenstein" video will be released Jan. 10 as part of Globalstages subscription series of live theatre from the United States and Europe. "Pinocchio" will be released March 10. Each tape will cost $27, with a total of six performances available for $135, Kaplan said.

The videos can be ordered by calling 1-888-324-5623.

The filming of the Stage One performance of "Frankenstein" was directed by J. Clements of San Francisco.

"I had heard that Stage One does great work," Globalstage President Libby Pratt said in a news release. "And when I saw Frankenstein in person, I was very impressed. This is just the kind of family theatre we are looking for: exciting special effects, innovative set design, and thought-provoking subject matter."

On the "Frankenstein" video, Elizabeth McNamer, a well-known literature professor, introduces viewers to the historical and literary significance of "Frankenstein" and provides running commentary. In a scene reminiscent of a Gothic mystery, McNamer and Preston Blakeley, her 11-year-old assistant, begin their discussions in a Louisville cemetery.

The play, based on Mary Shelleys novel, was adapted for stage by playwright Nick DiMartino.

"There is no better way to introduce children to the art of critical thinking than through plays," McNamer said in the release. "Historically, drama has served as a catharsis, helping the viewer to sort out his or her own conflicting emotions. 'Frankenstein' deals with the immortal them of life and death, and with the very modern dilemma of the unpredictability of science."