Vampires in Newbury… but did Dracula have enough bite?

BLACKEYED Theatre returned to the Corn Exchange with Dracula, adapted by Nick Lane from Bram Stoker’s 1897 gothic novel. He also inventively directs this talented ensemble company.

This dark tale is presented through letters, diaries and newspaper articles of the time, which become the vehicle for explaining the story and provides much of the narration. A case of telling the audience what is happening rather than showing us.

Victoria Spearing’s atmospheric stripped back wooden skeletal set is impressive with many different levels, taking us from England to Transylvania.

It is enhanced by Oliver Welsh’s atmospheric lighting, although I wonder if so many blackouts were necessary as it slowed the flow.

Tristan Parkes’ broody eerie soundscape and evocative original songs added much to creating the mood.

The six strong cast play multiple characters, which is quite a challenge.

The opening line “There are such beings as vampires” was a chilling start. However the horror, blood-letting, danger and suspense was somewhat lacking.

There are three actors playing the evil Count. David Chaffer is the foreboding older Count and also gives a convincing performance as professor Van Helsing who is determined to kill Dracula.

Richard Keightley and Harry Rundle bring their own interpretation of the Count as he gets younger by every change, wearing Dracula’s coat which made identification much clearer.

Marie Osman gives a charismatic performance as Lucy, who falls victim to the devilish Dracula. Her best friend Mina, strongly played by Maya-Nika Bewley, also succumbs to the Count.

First to visit the castle is the clerk Johnathan Harker, a nuanced performance from Pelé Kelland-Beau, but he didn’t appear to be very frightened of his highly dangerous situation.

Returning to England and Whitby by sea with a cargo of wooden crates they encounter a huge storm.

Could the vampires be controlling the weather and why are crew members disappearing? This was a very long repetitive scene which would have benefitted from being edited.

The ending held no surprises or shock, however the large school party in the balcony obviously enjoyed it.