One-night-only encore performance raises funds for Santa’s Christmas Cottage, a treasured holiday tradition in Historic Folsom
FOLSOM—The curtain may have closed on the much-talked-about Sutter Street Theatre production of Young Frankenstein last week, but for those who didn’t get to see it, the monster is very much alive—at least for one more night under the stars on the amphitheater stage in Historic Folsom.
This Saturday, August 30, the Zittel Family Amphitheater will transform into Transylvania for a one-night-only encore performance of Mel Brooks’ monstrously funny musical comedy. The special outdoor event begins at 7 p.m., with gates opening at 6 p.m., and it promises a night of laughs, music, and community spirit, all for a worthy cause. Proceeds from the evening will benefit Santa’s Christmas Cottage, the beloved holiday centerpiece in Historic Folsom that has quickly become a treasured family tradition.
From sold-out success to under the stars
Sutter Street Theatre’s production of Young Frankenstein was the talk of the summer in Folsom. Opening July 25 and running through August 24, every weekend show sold out, packing the intimate theatre with audiences eager to see Mel Brooks’ iconic characters brought to life. For those who missed out—or for fans who want to experience it again—this Saturday offers one more chance to catch the show, this time in a unique and unforgettable outdoor setting under the stars at the Zittel Family Amphitheater.
Directed by Kenny Brian Gagni with Dena Jimena, and featuring musical direction by Connie Mockenhaupt and Rikki Pratt and choreography by Devin and Thomas LePage, the production was praised for its clever staging, comedic timing, and high-energy numbers. The PG-13 rated musical captured the zany spirit of Brooks’ 1974 cult-classic film while adding lively song and dance that had audiences on their feet.
The story follows Frederick Frankenstein—insistent on pronouncing it “Fronk-en-steen”—a respected New York brain scientist who inherits his grandfather’s eerie estate in Transylvania. Initially reluctant, Frederick soon finds himself swept into a legacy of mad science alongside his eccentric assistant Igor (“Eye-gore”) and enchanting lab partner Inga. Their monster-making experiments inevitably go awry, unleashing mayhem and plenty of laughs.
Crowd-favorite numbers like “Transylvania Mania” and the tap-dancing spectacle of “Puttin’ on the Ritz” showcased the cast’s talents and had audiences raving week after week. The humor, the choreography, and the sheer energy of the show quickly cemented it as one of Sutter Street Theatre’s standout hits of 2025.
Laughter for a cause
While the performance guarantees plenty of comedy and music, the night is also about preserving a tradition that has become the heart of Historic Folsom’s holiday season.
Santa’s Christmas Cottage made its debut in December 2024 after months of hard work by volunteers, local businesses, and Rotary Clubs. Built as a gift to the community, the charming cottage quickly became a must-visit destination during the holidays. Families flocked to the Historic District Plaza to meet Santa, take festive photos, and soak up the nostalgic atmosphere created by the glowing lights and cheerful design.
The attraction drew thousands of visitors in its first season, creating timeless memories and giving Folsom another reason to shine during the holidays. But keeping that magic alive requires ongoing support. Proceeds from Saturday’s performance will help cover off-season storage, maintenance, and future programming, ensuring the Cottage continues to delight families for years to come.
Supporters say this unique combination of live theatre and community giving makes the event more than just entertainment—it’s an opportunity to preserve holiday spirit for generations of families in Folsom.
Event details
The Young Frankenstein encore is presented by the Folsom Historic District Association in partnership with Sutter Street Theatre, Santa’s Christmas Cottage, Bacchus House, Folsom Times, and the City of Folsom. Guests are encouraged to bring low-back lawn chairs for amphitheater seating. Wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase on site, though outside drinks are not permitted.
Seating is first-come, first-served, and tickets are already selling quickly. They are $25 each, with student discounts available at check-in. The gates open at 6 on Saturday with the event starting at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are available now at folsomhistoricdistrict.ticketspice.com/-young-frankentstein-2025.
