Written by Patrick Chavis

Dracula has been one of the most popular characters in the monster genre for decades. He’s mysterious and alluring, and he’s often portrayed as someone attractive to the eye. Unsurprisingly, there are popular movies and franchises based around handsome vampires (Twilight, The Vampire Diaries). These stories have Dracula’s rizz to thank (at least partially) for their success. WCP’s Niel LaBute penned a version of Dracula that adds some newer, more modern touches to the material and adds a much-appreciated sense of humor into the narrative. Still, the bite (not literally), the terror, and the suspense could be more convincing.

Story:

Dracula ( Steven Vogel) is a powerful, undead figure who walks around at night and sucks peoples blood. Dracula is immortal and, besides a few exceptions, impossible to kill. Dracula can also turn others into vampires if he wants to. In this play, Dracula wants to move from his native Transylvania to England. In the process, a bunch of pesky humans get in the way, and the horror and drama ensues.

This version of Dracula has some wonderful additions to the narrative that, in some ways, make this play feel new and even funny. The major difference is the female characters are given more agency. Dr. Van Helsing, the famous vampire hunter, is a woman in this version. LaBute seems to believe this is enough to make his Dracula different and distinctive enough, but it’s a mild change at best. This is highlighted even more with the uninspired ending. One of the most exciting elements about a character like Dracula is how he can creep up on people, vanish, and appear. While this is covered in this, the play uses a mask to symbolize invisibility. There’s an apparent lack of darkness in this production that often goes hand in hand with this type of character.

Costume:

As this is a Victorian tale, there’s some Victorian fashion that’s used sparingly. It is mainly utilized with the outfits worn by Caitlin Zinn, who plays Mina Murray. Her hairstyle to the dresses she wears in this production were all very good choices. One of the outfits is a black-blue dress with flower petals. The outfit worn by Ashley Stewart (Vixen) is also quite good: a simple black dress with a flowing bottom and a black and gold wreath. Stewart’s outfit and acting made Vixen a fun character to watch, even for the short runtime she has in this show. There’s a strong Steampunk aesthetic in this show. It had nothing to do with the story, but it’s there because Steampunk is cool.

Steampunk is cool!

Set Design :

The set design, in a word, is practical. The front of the stage is left open for the actors to walk around and sit or stand on boxes shaped like a cross. In the background, the wall has a hole shaped like a coffin. There’s a very bold use of colored lighting coming from each part of the stage: dark reds and greens. Left of the stage was a small jail cell for the character Renfield (Jose Orozco).

Acting:

This show had a consistent cast of good actors.

Steven Vogel gives a great performance as Count Dracula. His confidence was on full display throughout the performance but shined during the moments when he let loose.

Catlin Zinn, as the character Mina Murray, had wonderful delivery and stage presence. Bryan Edelmann gave a strong and consistent performance as Dr. Arthur Seward.

It lacks some of the suspense and excitement of its predecessor, but horror fans might still get a kick out of this new Dracula adaptation.

Nov 3 – 19,2023.

Review

7.6 Overall

9.1 Users (25 votes)

Story7.3

Acting8.3

Set & Design7.3

Costumes7.4

Entertainment7.5

What people say... 25 Leave your rating

Ingrid

Creative production!

The show was great! Loved the creative use of minimal props. With the simple shift of a few boxes the cast and crew was able to create clear scene changes. The energy from the cast was also very engaging. Even though the Dracula story is familiar the direction of this production made it fresh and entertaining

January 4, 2024, 6:44 pm

Story9

Acting9.5

Set & Design10

Costumes9

Entertainment10

0

0

Julie Hallgrimson

Clever Ending

I enjoyed the play, the acting was great. I really enjoyed the clever twist at the end.

November 27, 2023, 10:45 pm

Story10

Acting10

Set & Design8

Costumes8

Entertainment10

0

0

BRUCE GOODRICH

New Shocks for a Classic Tale

Director Brandon Ferruccio, and company, do a solid job of keeping the suspense high, along with a few chill-inducing moments, in a ‘tale as old as time’ (but not that one). Neil LaBute’s adaptation follows the Stoker novel pretty faithfully, but adds a twist or two, particularly with having a female Dr. Van Helsing, as well as giving the iconic female characters more agency in their personal choices, and their dealings with men. The spare scenic design worked well, with all space being utilized effectively. The actors were uniformly strong and maintained restraint in their performances, which made them more sympathetic and believable, in unbelievable circumstances. The clever costumes married contemporary and period with a ‘Steam Punk’ aesthetic. While the pacing was pretty fleet, I might have suggested more overlapped transitions, with barely a pause in the action, from scene to scene, along with agitated music or appropriate soundscape to underscore, to keep the suspense at the highest level possible. Good work, all around.

November 24, 2023, 6:52 pm

Story7.5

Acting8

Set & Design6.5

Costumes8

Entertainment7.8

0

1

J

A frighteningly good time

The minimalist sets put all the focus on this terrific cast, who draw out the drama in this Gothic tale while grounding their outsized characters. A gender swapped Van Helsing and strong female characters add an interesting feminist dimension to the classic story. It entertains from start to finish!

November 23, 2023, 10:41 pm

Story8

Acting8.5

Set & Design8.5

Costumes8.5

Entertainment10

0

0

Bree

Spooky Fun

It was a great show that was a creative twist on a legendary story. The actors were committed and held the audience’s attention even with limited props and set changes.

November 23, 2023, 3:55 am

Story8.5

Acting10

Set & Design7.2

Costumes8.9

Entertainment10

0

0

Gloria M Tapanes

lures you in like a good vampire

The acting was so good, that you were drawn into the play from the beginning. I liked that the women were given more agency. Not just damsels in distress. Very inventive way of showing how Dracula appears from "nowhere" with the use of the mask. The pacing of the show was well done. For a story that is well known, it still shocked in certain scenes. Kudos to everyone!

November 22, 2023, 9:47 pm

Story10

Acting9

Set & Design10

Costumes10

Entertainment10

0

0

Dustin

Amazing Acting <3

All the actors did a perfect job! All the props and costumes were beautiful too. I was definitely not disappointed. Fav characters have to be Renfield and Dr. Van Helsing!
I’ve never seen Dracula before this, and this play definitely has made it to my favorites!

November 21, 2023, 2:11 am

Story10

Acting10

Set & Design8.5

Costumes8

Entertainment10

0

0

Courtney Shaffer

A Show One Can Really Sink Their Teeth Into

When I think of Dracula, I think of capes, vampire fangs, and (of course) blood.

I went to see Westminster’s production on closing night.

Brandon Ferruccio’s eery, realistic take on Dracula had me sitting on the edge of my seat, wondering what was to come.

The perfectly simplistic set design, allowed the story and actors to be at the center of this tale. And the lighting design did a marvelous job of informing the mood of the scenes.

The costumes had a beautiful elevated steampunk aesthetic. I loved the nods to the time period, while they allowed us to enjoy the oddities that is steampunk. Such a cool combo! The blood soaked pearl choker necklaces after one had been bitten by Dracula, was a true stroke of genius and also quite hauntingly beautiful.

It was obvious that the actors enjoyed their roles and all gave believable performances. Moreover, I especially enjoyed this entire casts’ chemistry.

Wonderfully done all! Congratulations!! Wish I could come see it again.

November 21, 2023, 1:23 am

Story9

Acting9

Set & Design10

Costumes10

Entertainment10

0

0

RS

Felt Immersed!

I loved the twists in the story. It was dramatic and scary but I looked forward to the funny moments. Acting was so well done I felt immersed in the story.

November 21, 2023, 12:16 am

Story10

Acting9.8

Set & Design9.5

Costumes10

Entertainment10

0

0

Dan

Great Production!

Bram Stoker's classic story (with some original twists) in two acts. The performers left it all on stage with incredible heart and sincere delivery. Steven Vogel's Count Dracula and Candy Beck's Dr. Van Helsing stood out, with Vogel's charisma and charm whispering the sinister undertones of an arch-villain. Beck's Van Helsing also possessed a dignity that hinted rather than reveal the full extent of the character's resolve, which built great tension whenever the two appeared together in a scene and led to an exciting climax in the second act.

Dylan Ginez as Jonathan Harker and Bryan Edelmann as Dr. Arthur Seward formed a compelling duo as men of 19th Century science and reason, suddenly confronted with inexplicable horrors. Jose Orozco as Renfield managed to fit an impressive character arc into the two acts, starting as a respectable British citizen and falling deeper into madness. Gabriel Prunty's Lucy Westenra and Caitlin Zinn's Mina Murray form their own duo that both complimented and contrasted with that of Seward and Harker, occupying the main storyline as they contended with increasing tragedy. Ashley Stewart and Ervin Bolisay rounded out the cast and wore multiple hats that lent larger scope to the intimate production. Stewart's energy and Bolisay's stalwart presence set the tone for their respective scenes.

The writing included several jokes and comedic moments, which is important in a dark story. The jokes provided a contrast that allowed the story's horror elements to land with even more impact. The props were sparing but well-implemented, with a creative use of part of the background scenery. The lighting and sound were handled well and complimented the story throughout. The team behind Dracula put on a wonderful performance that had the audience giving a standing ovation by the end.

November 21, 2023, 12:12 am

Story8

Acting8

Set & Design7.5

Costumes7

Entertainment9

0

0

Monika

Dracula

All the actors were amazing and captivation! Loved it

November 20, 2023, 11:49 pm

Story10

Acting10

Set & Design10

Costumes10

Entertainment10

0

0

Pamela

Would definitely see again

We went on opening night and what a great show! The wonderful cast was on point. My favorite character had to be Renfield, he brought the perfect amount of comedy to this show and his expressions and drama were felt. The show overall seemed to have a good mix of both comedy and drama. The story was easy to follow, whether you have read the story of Dracula or had never even heard of Dracula before. I really enjoyed the simplicity of the stage too, I think that it allowed you to focus more on the story and the actors rather than what's going on in the background. The costumes were wonderful, I really dug the steampunk vibe that everyone had. Over all, great show, great actors and would definitely see again.

November 15, 2023, 6:36 pm

Story8.9

Acting9.9

Set & Design8.6

Costumes7.9

Entertainment9.9

0

1

Dustin miller

Great show

Such an amazing show. My wife and I went on opening night and the cast did not disappoint. Everyone was top of their game. The whole play had the right amount of drama & fright mixed with just the right amount of comedy from the character Renfield. The story was very easy to follow for someone who may have not ever read the book. The cast I believe was perfect and great Direction from Brandon.

November 15, 2023, 4:48 pm

Story8.1

Acting9

Set & Design7.5

Costumes9

Entertainment8.6

0

0

Antonette

A must see…

In the words of my 12 year old daughter “ the play was entertaining. Van Helsing was good but Renfield is my favorite”

I have never seen Dracula but I love the play! The actors did amazing, they were all so believable. I was sitting there watching them in awe of how good they are and how good they look. The outfits was amazing- you can tell that someone really consider the details on everyone’s outfit. The story was very captivating - there were some laugh out loud moments. I believe the set made you focus on the acting and the story even more- it was simple but not so simple, the lighting was perfect. My daughter got to use her imagination and I love that! Definitely a must see!

November 14, 2023, 4:54 am

Story10

Acting10

Set & Design8

Costumes10

Entertainment9.5

0

1

Bernadine Cottrell

An Excellent Time!

My husband & I both thoroughly enjoyed Dracula! I loved the minimal set which, to me, allowed the actors to truly shine. The Steampunk accessories were very interesting and added to the story. Dr. Van Helsing and Mina were probably my favorite characters but all of the actors were wonderful. I commented to Steven Vogel that he was creepy but, since he was Dracula, that was a very good thing.

This was the second performance we have seen directed by Brandon Ferruccio. He did an amazing job coordinating everything. We can't wait to see his next show!

November 13, 2023, 10:26 pm

Story9

Acting10

Set & Design9

Costumes9

Entertainment10

0

0

Maria

Such a great show

Went to see on Friday night and it was amazing. It was a simple set but it got the job done with the lighting and music setting the tone. I thought the twist of vanhelsing being female was cool. My ultimate fav was renfield for sure he stole the scene every time & vixen was a quick second. If you’re a fan of Dracula in general it is cool show to check out. Going stem punk was cool and loved the looks . Loved the lace get up Lucy wore in the 2nd 1/2 .
Side note. Bring a sweater it is very cold in the theatre.

November 13, 2023, 4:50 am

Story9

Acting10

Set & Design9

Costumes10

Entertainment10

0

0

Joshua

Welcome to Dracula’s home

This is already the fourth show I have gone to at WCP, and I must say this is easily my favorite. From a prodution standpoint, this stands out the most; it really feels like a set come to life. So dark and mysterious, just like the lead himself, Dracula, who is also maliciously charismatic. Every scene he’s in he oozes complete dread and even so in key scenes with Mina and Dr. Van Helsing, who were both standouts. Everyone in the cast was fantastic, but I do wish there were a few touchups to the writing to help polish up a couple characters. I also have to give a major shoutout to Renfield, who just ate up every scene he was in. Definitely worth the price of admission at a late evening show.

November 9, 2023, 10:49 pm

Story8

Acting9

Set & Design8.5

Costumes8.5

Entertainment9

0

1

Andy P

Can Cut the Tension with a Knife

What a different and unique version of this play. We have never seen anything quite like it. Had no idea how modern and dramatic it would be. This is not ur typical Dracula show.
We loved the rivalry between Van Helsing and Dracula. Her being a smart strong Woman made it more compelling and I gasped when she knocked him down a notch with her ‘mystic’ powers. Its almost like she was a Witch in this version which made her character level up. I saw her always grabbing for mystic items and I thought it was so clever.
The costumes are also really unique and u are right , STEAMPUNK IS COOL heheh. Everyone looks quite incredible.
I think I would succumb to this mysterious Dracula , just like Lucy and Mina did. The actor really nailed a sexy charm. My friend liked Vixen the best, he thought she was going to attack the audience at one point.
I do wish it was a bigger stage to house so more effects, but this is community theatre after all, and I feel they made the best of what they had in terms of space.
Overall, Great show and Review Page!

PS: this space can get pretty cold, so bring a jacket

November 8, 2023, 6:33 pm

Story9

Acting10

Set & Design8

Costumes10

Entertainment10

0

0

Shanah Leonetti

Dark and not too dark

We made it the second night of this production and are so grateful we did! This production is curation at its best. From the set, to casting, sounds and lighting -we were so impressed and excited for what was coming next. We brought our 13-year old daughter, and it was the right amount of suspense and passion. She now wants to dive deeper into the path of joining a future production. This show kept us captivated and inspired our own creative. Thank you for the experience.

November 8, 2023, 6:16 pm

Story9

Acting9.5

Set & Design8.5

Costumes8.5

Entertainment10

0

2

ZomBee Girl

Dark and Thrilling!

Cool Show! We saw it opening night. The Acting and Costumes were my favorite. Loved all of the Actresses outfits ! Lucy and Renfield were two standouts for us but the whole cast killed it. We will be back to this theatre again for sure!

November 8, 2023, 4:36 am

Story8.2

Acting10

Set & Design7.1

Costumes10

Entertainment10

0

0

Mike

Not your grandfather's Dracula

The script embraces its gothic horror roots while at the same time making changes to appeal to a more modern audience, such as featuring a female Van Helsing, without taking itself too seriously or feeling forced. We are given distinct, well defined, and relatable characters whom we feel we really get to know better as the play progresses. The character arc of Mina is especially enjoyable to follow.

The male lead throws himself into the role with an obvious love for the character and with a charisma that makes it difficult to not root for this villain, even as he destroys multiple lives. The Renfield, Vixen and attendant roles add some vital energy and humor to a script that is walking a fine line between horror, suspense, despair, creepiness, sexiness, character development and action. Fine work by the director maintaining an excellent balance.

The set design is striking in its understated simplicity, allowing the focus to stay on the plot, where it belongs, while still being as functional as it needs to be. The costumes are outstanding, from the fun steampunk twist for the ‘good guys’ to Dracula’s amazing coat, which was tempted to sneak backstage and steal for myself.

November 6, 2023, 11:10 pm

Story8.5

Acting9

Set & Design9.5

Costumes10

Entertainment9.5

0

0

Christian

Incredibly Well Rounded !

Hi OCR, we found your page at ferruccio.arts on Instagram! Its great you let audience review just like Goldstar. We caught the show Saturday night and it was great! The Acting was incredible for a community theatre production. Our favorites were Lucy because she was able to change her personalities from bright and bubbly to a very creepy vampire on the hunt. Renfield, he was a crowd fave for sure because of his funny lines and physicality. Lastly we have to say Dracula. He had a great blend of part dangerous, part mysteries but also part sexy.
The story in itself was interesting for a take on Dracula and I liked the feminist touches. I will have to find this script and give it a read.

November 6, 2023, 5:10 pm

Story8

Acting10

Set & Design7.5

Costumes10

Entertainment10

0

0

Tawney

Direction

The production was absolutely beautiful and the direction was extremely polished and professional. The lead actor, was a standout.

November 6, 2023, 2:14 am

Story10

Acting10

Set & Design10

Costumes10

Entertainment10

0

0

Bianca T

Loved it!

Taking a strong lead from Bram Stoker’s book this play starts off a little slow. Luckily the director and actors embrace every moment and use the stage, some added humor, and their cast chemistry to give this classic story some new life.

We had a great time, and really enjoyed the changes that were added to the script, such as Dr Van Helsing being female and Mina having a more modern and feminist attitude.

For me though, the highlight of the cast was Renfield (Jose Orozco). His performance was a joy to watch and he killed (no pun intended) every scene he was in.

Overall, this was a fun way to spend a Friday night, and if you’re a fan of the Dracula story, definitely worth seeing.

November 5, 2023, 8:38 pm

Story7.8

Acting8.5

Set & Design8

Costumes6.5

Entertainment10

0

2

Kyle L.

Acting! Wow

Great Review Patrick! We saw the show last night. I agree , this was a different Dracula experience. It felt more interpretive in its style but very dark. The acting was superb! Best we have seen at this local theatre.

November 5, 2023, 7:39 pm

Story7

Acting10

Set & Design8

Costumes8

Entertainment8.5

0

2

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Above Average!