Dracula Comes to UW Oct. 25

The University of Wyoming brings Halloween season to stage with “Dracula: The Legend in Motion” Oct. 25-31. Shows start at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25-29 and Oct. 31, and at 2 p.m. Oct. 30 in the Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts Thrust Theatre.

Tickets cost $16 for the public; $13 for senior citizens, UW faculty and staff; and $8 for students. Tickets are available at the Performing Arts box office and the Wyoming Union information desk, by calling (307) 766-6666 or going online at www.uwyo.edu/finearts.

“Dracula: The Legend in Motion” is an original dance-theater twist on Bram Stoker’s masterwork.

The show features choreography by Jennifer Deckert, UW associate professor of dance, and music composed and performed by Sean Stone, UW assistant lecturer of musical theater.

The production portrays the wonder, desire and terror of the original novel in a story of passion and courage that takes audience members from the mystery-shrouded depths of Transylvania to the stylishly steampunked streets of London.  

The story begins with the tearful farewell of young lovers Jonathan Harker and Mina as Harker journeys to the mysterious land of Transylvania. As Harker struggles against superstitious villagers and the evil intentions of his host, the madness of Renfield is explored, alongside the stoic Dr. Seward. Soon, Dracula arrives in London and puts Mina’s friend Lucy under his thrall.

Lucy soon descends into darkness, Harker returns, and Professor Van Helsing arrives to provide much needed aid. As tragedy strikes the group, Renfield finally succumbs to Dracula’s charm and menace. A changed Lucy terrorizes London and, under Van Helsing's guidance, the mourners become hunters. Mina, left behind, is seduced by Dracula -- the discovery of which ignites a desperate hunt that can only end in battle with the most fearsome of ancient evils.

Set to an exciting, contemporary score, and featuring atmospheric lighting, sets and sound, and edgy costumes, “Dracula: The Legend in Motion” invites audiences to leave the rational world behind and become immersed in this dark fantasy.

A costume contest will be held during the Halloween night performance of the show. Audience members are invited to wear their best ghoulish garb or steampunk gear for a chance to win complimentary tickets to future UW Theatre and Dance productions.

In conjunction with the production, a United Blood Services blood drive will take place Wednesday, Oct. 26, from 12:30-3:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts east parking lot. 

For more information, contact Kathy Kirkaldie at (307) 766-2160 or kirisk@uwyo.edu.