Monsters of the Villa Diodati

Monsters of the Villa Diodati is an electrifying musical set during a stormy night at a villa on Lake Geneva. Lord Byron challenges Mary Shelley, John Polidori, and their companions to create the perfect tale of terror before the evening ends. Their contest gives rise to two enduring works of Gothic literature: Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and Polidori’s The Vampyre. The musical also explores the creative process and the personal demons that shaped these iconic monsters.

Originally commissioned by Creative Cauldron in Falls Church through its Bold New Works for Intimate Stages initiative, the production premiered in 2016 to critical acclaim.

When: October 8 through November 1, 2026

Showtimes: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Sundays at 2:00 p.m.

Opening Night: October 10, 2026

Tickets: Opening Night tickets are $75. Tier 1 tickets are $50, Tier 2 tickets are $40, and student tickets are $25. All preview performances are half price with the code PREVIEW.

Discount: Use code SSS to save $15 on Sunday performances at 2:00 p.m., except for the closing Sunday performance.

Accessibility: Closed-captioned performances are scheduled for October 15 and October 18.

Ages: Recommended for ages 13 and older.

Music and Lyrics: Matt Conner

Book and Lyrics: Stephen Gregory Smith

Director: Matt Conner

Music Director: Garret Jones

Sponsors: Mark F. Werblood and Serene Feldman Werblood are sponsors. Jon Wiant is the principal Bold New Works sponsor.

Venue: Creative Cauldron, 127 E Broad Street, Falls Church, Virginia 22046

Contact: 703-436-9948