Nick Lane’s adaptation of Dracula has brought Bram Stoker’s
gothic novel to the stage in a fresh and exciting way. I’ve seen Dracula
several times, but I have to admit, this has definitely been my favourite.
The small ensemble of six actors - Maya-Nika Bewley, David
Chafer, Richard Keightley, Pelé Kelland-Beau, Marie Osman and Harry Rundle – play
multiple parts brilliantly using costumes and accents to change between their
characters. Including three actors playing Dracula as he gets gradually younger.
The story focused on five clear chapters, starting with Harker’s journey to Transylvania,
The Demeter setting sail, Whitby, Renfield, where it runs alongside the first
three chapters and finally the pursuit of Dracula. The action changed between
small scenes interspersed with narration across the actors as they relate the
story through letters, diary extracts and newspaper articles. This style
perfectly fitted the story.
The multileveled set, designed by Victoria Spearing, is
static, yet it perfectly allowed the imagination to be in many different
locations with its versatility. With the moving of a few props and boxes, it
instantly transformed us to being onboard the Demeter or Renfield’s cell. The
lighting, designed by Naomi Gibbs, perfectly complementing the action and the
set. The haunting songs by Tristan Parkes increased the atmosphere.
This is one version of Dracula which really isn’t to be
missed.
Runs until Saturday 12th April, Darlington
Hippodrome.
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