'Dracula' Swoops in for Halloween

Based on the book by Bram Stoker, adapted by Crane Johnson, and directed at by Scott Rousseau, the story of Dracula is told with a smirk and a wink, but not much of a fright. Save for one dramatic blood-sucking event, there is very little vampire related stage action. So, faint of heart need not fear!

The story takes place in the home of Dr. Seward. His fiancé has been stricken by a mysterious malady. She sleeps all day and has a mark of two spots on her neck. As Dr. Seward becomes more and more concerned about Lucy he invites renowned metaphysician, Professor Van Helsing to his home in hopes that the professor can help.  Professor Van Helsing unveils some very key things about Lucy’s illness and when Count Dracula, the neighbor from another manor comes to visit, Professor Van Helsing is able to put the pieces together.

Several members of the cast are familiar faces. Nancy Powell (previously seen in and ) plays Mrs. Harker, who is Lucy’s aunt. She has the opportunity, once again to share her comic timing as well as to show her talent for physical comedy. John Riggle is very good as Renfield, Dr. Seward’s patient. He has a very effective and very wild giggle that factors into the characterization of Renfield. Also featured are Scott Summers as Dr. Seward, Nikki Heraghty as Abigail, Barbara Meadows as Prof. Van Helsing, Meredith Shockley as Lucy and John Bates plays the title role, Count Dracula.

Based on the cast's opening night, there are some acting kinks to work out, but a few more shows and everyone should find their groove. Dracula runs until Halloween, Oct. 31, including and