Theater readies 'Dracula' with a twist for Halloween performances

October 17, 2023 (Volume 47, Number 4)
Article by Samantha Drougel

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Demetria Thomas, visiting professor, gives direction to cast members during a 'Dracula' rehearsal.

In time for Halloween, Grand Valley Theatre will perform "Dracula: A Feminist Revenge Fantasy, Really." This comedic rendition of a classic tale is written by Kate Hamill and directed by Demetria Thomas, visiting professor. 

Performances will take place in the Haas Performing Arts Center, Linn Maxwell Keller Black Box Theatre, from October 26-November 1 at 7:30 p.m. The October 9 performance will be at 2 p.m. 

Thomas describes the play as a feminist retelling, adapted from Bram Stoker.

Thomas said, “It’s a version of the classic damsel in distress tale that puts women on the task of tearing down the patriarchy, while defining monsters in a more casual sense.”

Performed with a cast of nine, the director explained what she would like the audience to understand after watching their performance.

“The gender construct often impedes our ability to heal from trauma, as well as find reasonable solutions to problems in a timely fashion,” Thomas said. “Rather than focusing on women trying to elevate their status in society, let’s talk about why their status is so low to begin with.”

Tickets are available to purchase on the Theatre website.

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