Even though Irish author Bram Stoker published Dracula over a hundred years ago, the novel continues to be incredibly influential in this day and age. And with the popularity of shows like HBO’s True Blood, ABC’s The Gates or the CW’s The Vampire Diaries, you can’t help but join in on this vampire craze. Not only have vampires made their way in our homes, but the popularity on the big screen with movies like The Twilight Saga have created a buzz for quite some time. Young and old, vampire enthusiasts eagerly wait for their new movie to be released or television show to come be aired. It’s quite a phenomenon.
And now, the vampires are taking the stage. Long time Santa Clarita resident, Eric Clark, wrote and will direct a truly faithful stage play adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic novel, Dracula. He started his adaptation in 1997 but it was “shelved for many years,” states Eric. It has recently come to life and together with Stephen Whelan, drama teacher at Valencia High School, residents can watch the drama unfold. “Stephen is producing it as a fundraiser for his theatre department,” states Eric. “This is a community event and a labor of love with all involved.” True Blood’s Mark Viniello, will be sharing his expertise with the costume makeup.
Performance dates will be October 21 and 22 at 7 p.m., and Saturday, October 23 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Valencia High School Theatre on Dickason Drive. This all-adult cast includes graduates from the Hart District along with some professional actors from the community.
Come one, come all, and spend the Halloween season at the theatre. Individual general admission ticket prices are only $10. Take your friends and family and enjoy this adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula on stage, with proceeds benefitting the Valencia High School’s drama department.
To purchase tickets, e-mail swhelan@hartdistrict.org or call 661-294-1188 ext. 522.