Review: 'Dracula' at Connecticut Cabaret Theatre

Pictured: The cast of 'Dracula' Photo by Stu Clark

Berlin, CT - Connecticut Cabaret Theatre is proudly presenting the thrilling stage adaptation of ‘Dracula’ on their cabaret stage just in time for Halloween. The dramatic thriller was written by John Mattera based on the classic novel by Bram Stoker. The CCT production was directed and produced by artistic director Kris McMurray and runs through November 4, 2017.

This adaptation is closely based on the original horror classic that tells the frightening story of the mysterious Count Dracula. I must admit that I am not a big fan of the genre, but I was familiar with the character and some of the legend surrounding him. I enjoyed seeing how all the pieces fit together in this excellent theatrical experience. Mr. McMurray wanted to choose a show that was new and different and he chillingly succeeded with this production.

The elegant Count, portrayed with finesse by Alex Papacoda, has come to England to live on a large estate next to an insane asylum. The asylum is run by the naive Dr. Seward whose beautiful daughter Lucy has begun to suffer from a mysterious illness. The doctor reaches out to Professor Van Helsing, played by Michael Gilbride, who surmises that the girl is the victim of a vampire.

The director wonderfully set the stage for opening night, with a full moon shining brightly over the venue and creepy touches in the cabaret-style theatre. Harvest decorations appeared in the seating and box office areas and organ music punctuated with the sounds of animals was playing before the show began. The fabulous set designed by the tech designer James J. Moran powerfully put us into the asylum, complete with Gargoyles and candelabras. As always, Mr. Moran lit his work with a deft touch and the clever black and white theme of both costumes and set decorations evoked the classic horror film with Bela Lugosi. Effective sound design also helped to set the mood.

Mr. Papacoda did well with the role of the dashing but pale Count Dracula and he worked his velvet cape. Mr. Gilbride returned to this stage to take on the role of the Dutch Van Helsing; the professor had a lot of lines delivered with a consistent accent. Tracey Brown was lovely as the tortured Miss Lucy and Tracey Costa played her Cockney maid Ms. Wells. Russell Fish appeared on the CCT stage again in the role of Dr. Seward and was convincing as Lucy’s befuddled parent. Tony Galli played the role of sanatorium aide Butterworth with a thick Cockney accent.

Chris Brooks gave a great performance in the role of Lucy’s love interest John Harker. This young man went through the emotions of his character most effectively. In the role of the crazed Renfield was Josh Luszczak, who I have often seen locally on the stage of Phoenix Stage Company. In spectacular make-up and hair, this young actor’s performance was both scary and mesmerizing. Watching him transform in and out of the control of his master was witnessing acting at its best.

While the adaptation is definitely in the horror genre, it wasn’t so scary that I couldn’t watch. I recommend it as a theatrical experience perfect for the season; the opening night clearly audience appreciated it. Some rowdy audience members enjoyed howling along with the soundtrack, but others jumped at appropriate points in the three acts. ‘Dracula’ runs every Friday and Saturday at 8:00pm from October 6th thru November 4th, 2017. Doors open at 7:15pm.

Nancy Sasso Janis has been writing theatre reviews since 2012 as a way to support local theatre venues and she posts reviews of well over 100 productions each year. In 2016, she became a member of the Connecticut Critics Circle. She continues to contribute theatre news, previews, and audition notices to local Patch sites. Reviews of all levels of theatrical productions are posted on Naugatuck Patch and the Patch sites closest to the venue. Follow the reviewer on her Facebook pages Nancy Sasso Janis: Theatre Reviewer and Connecticut Theater Previews and on Twitter @nancysjanis417