Dracula Begins October 25 at The Bank Theatre

The Bank Theatre is thrilled to present a Sun Parlour Players production of Dracula, adapted by John Mattera, based on the novel by Bram Stoker and Directed by Corey Robertson. Performances begin October 25 and run weekends through to November 3, 2024.

Dracula, is a chilling reimagining of the classic horror tale that has captivated audiences for generations. This production remains faithful to the essence of Bram Stoker’s iconic story, bringing to life the eerie journey of Count Dracula as he arrives in England, settling near an insane asylum overseen by the well-meaning yet oblivious Dr. Seward.

Director Corey Robertson said, “We are welcoming seasoned actors, youth actors and debuting actors to The Bank Theatre stage, many of whom are from Windsor and Essex County as well as Leamington. It is a great cast that I am very proud to work with.”

The cast includes: JULIAN DAVID – Jonathan Harker, DEAN VALENTINO – Count Dracula, BROOKLYN CILISKA – Woman Vampire 1, BECKY GLOVER – Woman Vampire 2, TINA SCHROEDER – Woman Vampire 3 & Servant, JAELYNN BRETT – Woman Vampire 4, DIANE TOFFLEMIRE – Mrs. Martha Westenra, MARK RIBBLE – Mr. Henry Westenra, DAVID MURPHY Charles, EMMA TRUSWELL – Miss Lucy Westenra, MELISSA SCOTT – Miss Mina Murray, BENJAMIN BARRETTE – Arthur Holmwood, SPENCER Dunn – Dr. Peter Seward, PAIGE FRANKFURTH – Professor Abigail Van Helsing, RACHEL HILLIS – Ms. Renfield.

“Our story unfolds with a captivating cast of characters: the determined Professor Van Helsing, who must convince Dr. Seward of Dracula’s true nature; the enigmatic Renfield, a fly-eating madman entranced by the Count; the beautiful Lucy Westenra, whose striking resemblance to a long-lost love ignites Count Dracula’s (Dean Valentino) obsession; and Charles, the Westenra family butler, whose poor eyesight shields him from the Count’s hypnotic gaze,” said Robertson.

Adding to the intrigue are three female vampires, weaving a tapestry of danger and desire. As the plot thickens, expect the exhilarating twists that have made this tale a cornerstone of horror, culminating in a shocking double twist that will leave you breathless.

Count Dracula and the concept of vampires are deeply woven into our cultural fabric, evoking images of ghouls, castles, and the haunting cries of the night. Just as folklore has shaped our understanding of figures like the Easter Bunny and St. Nicholas, the lore of vampires continues to enchant and terrify. It is Robertson’s hope that this production reminds us of the thrill that comes with a well-told ghost story—the mix of humor and a shiver that accompanies a great tale.

At its core, Dracula is not just a horror story; it is a tragic love story. Vlad Dracula, a real historical figure, fought valiantly to protect his homeland and his beloved. His transformation into the vampire we recognize today is steeped in sorrow and rage, driven by a heart-wrenching loss that curses him to wander the earth in search of his lost love for eternity.

As you embark on this journey into the realm of the supernatural, Robertson invites you to “immerse yourself in the lore and characteristics of vampires. They are powerful beings, able to transform into bats or wolves, and reliant on the life force of others to sustain themselves. Yet, they are bound by rules—sunlight and blessed objects are their enemies, while their demise requires a stake through the heart and garlic to seal their fate.

We hope you enjoy this thrilling adaptation of Dracula. Let the darkness envelop you, and may the story linger long after the final curtain falls.

Performances run October 25, 26, 31, November 1 & 2 at 7:30 pm, doors 7 pm and matinees on October 26, 27, November 3 at 2:30 pm with doors opening at 2:00 pm. Audience members are encouraged to dress up throughout the run with a Halloween costume contest on Halloween night October 31.

Dracula is sponsored by the Municipality of Leamington and Chances Gaming, Leamington. Dracula is Produced by special arrangement with The Dramatic Publishing Company Woodstock Illinois © 2004 The Dramatic Publishing Company.

The Bank Theatre is located at 10 Erie St. S., Leamington. Tickets are $25 + HST per person, and can be purchased at the Box Office 30 minutes before the show if not sold out. Tickets may also be purchased during Box Office hours Thursday – Saturday from 11 am – 1 pm or online.