Bath to 'Freak Out with Frankenstein' in free city-centre dance spectacular – Saturday 3rd October 2026.

Bath will come alive this October as 80 young dancers transform the city centre in a spectacular, free, open-air celebration of Mary Shelley and her iconic novel, Frankenstein.

Marking the author's connection to Bath, where she wrote Frankenstein in 1816, Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein, in partnership with the Dorothy Coleborn Dance School and Bath Children's Literature Festival, is proud to present Freak Out with Frankenstein – a free family event celebrating creativity, community and one of literature's most iconic characters.

On Saturday 3rd October, around 80 dancers aged 6 to 18 will perform two large-scale, flashmob-style routines near Bath Abbey at 4pm and 5.30pm. Specially choreographed for the occasion, these energised performances celebrate Mary Shelley's remarkable connection to Bath and the lasting cultural impact of her legendary creation, as explored across the five-floors of Bath’s House of Frankenstein.

Director Vicki Smith of Mary Shelley's House of Frankenstein said:
"Mary Shelley changed literary history while living in Bath, and we're thrilled to celebrate her legacy in such a vibrant and accessible way. Freak Out with Frankenstein is all about bringing people together through creativity, performance and fun. We hope residents and visitors will join us to experience this unique spectacle in the heart of the city. We're looking forward to welcoming people from across the region to experience this dance event together."

Families are warmly invited to gather in the city centre, enjoy the free performances and be part of this unforgettable afternoon of movement, music and community spirit. A tribute to one of literature's most enduring stories by talented young performers, Freak Out with Frankenstein promises to be one of the many highlights of Bath Children's Literature Festival's closing weekend.

Event Details

• What: Freak Out with Frankenstein
• When: Saturday 3rd October, performances at 4pm and 5.30pm
• Where: Near Bath Abbey & Stall St - Bath city centre
• Admission: Free