Monstrous and Romantic (Clarksville Little Theater)

Oct 23

3 min read

Dracula

Adapted by William McNulty

Based on the book: Dracula by Bram Stoker

Directed by Joey Arena A review by Beth Beck

Throughout the years many local theater troupes have composed new and innovative

adaptations of the play Dracula, each subtly based on Bram Stoker’s original composition which was written in 1897. Since it first came out, the seamless journalistic perspective weaved throughout the pages foreshadow the tragic and dark accountings of each individual involved in the ultimate plight. Some of them are led to their untimely demise while others’ inner heroism is swiftly brought to the surface. Ultimately this tale of morbid romance, horror, and tragedy revolves around the villainous deeds of Count Dracula and his minions of darkness.

Every recounting of this well-known tale tends to be based loosely on Irish folklore and, more specifically, on a fictitiously romanticized design of Vlad the Impaler’s love life. Count Dracula is at times viewed simply as a monstrous ancient vampire. At other times the character is portrayed as a misunderstood and overzealous man turned beast after his true love takes her own life and he in turn spitefully renounces his faith. Having vowed to seek vengeance and avenge his lover, he becomes a tyrannic vampire with a lust for blood. Of the various retellings of this gothic affair, modern versions have incorporated creative plot twists and theatrics to keep the story new. Dracula is a living breathing piece of art that Clarksville Little Theater paid homage to with their most recent rendition. Action-packed and thinly veiled with mystery and intrigue, the special effects are a key highlight of this show. Trapped in the dark, audience members bond through their synchronized chills and jumps as screams echo around them. The timing and pacing of each surround sound effect or lighting change strategically highlights the script itself. With many scenes consisting of back and forth dialogue between the actors who are attempting to understand the horror occurring around them, these elemental factors come into heavy play. Cast members utilize the aisles between guests for jump scares and scene changes that effectively grab and captivate attention.

This particular production had a clever use of vocal audio recordings for dramatic moments that cleverly assisted guests at the back of the theater effectively. Dracula, played by James Short, used this tool to his advantage as it allowed his voice to carry steadily and eerily throughout the theater during key scenes. Dr. Thomas Seward, played by John Ernstberger, was by far the most relatable character throughout the play. His acting ability and capacity to convey true emotions on the stage led many attendees, myself included, to tears. The cast did an excellent job overall. This adaptation paid respect to several other versions throughout the years while still managing to incorporate a fresh new take on this classic.

Noteworthy mentions:

Jonathan Harker - played by Jesse "Jay" Abraham. This actor’s tone, inflection, and use of space on stage made it difficult to keep your eyes off of him. Truly a job well done. As one of the few innocent protagonists in the tale, Jay’s earnest reactions and clear wide ranged vocals were captivating.

Robert Renfield - played by Neil Brewer. Neil had an intoxicating energy about him throughout the entire production. His mischievous side glances and wayward giggles gave the scenes more life and intrigue.

The Child - played by Ella Atherton. This young actress did a fantastic job of gaining the

audience’s sympathy while portraying an innocent youth with a darker side. Her scream itself sent chills down my spine. It was comparable to the famous Amityville Horror scream with perfect painstaking pitch and projection.

The ensemble’s chemistry and convincing performances successfully draw you into their 19th century world of horror, suspense, and mystery. The entire production was masterfully crafted in a way that balanced tension and drama with thrills and peril.

Dracula

Clarksville Little Theatre

Show ran October 4-13

301 E. Montgomery Ave.

Clarksville, IN 47129

(812) 283-6522

www.clarksvillelittletheatre.org