Photo by Open Stage.
Transylvania transports to Pennsylvania in Open Stage’s upcoming production of “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors.”
This is a retelling of Bram Stoker’s classic gothic tale, but with added camp, absurd humor and a drop of sexiness.
If you are looking for a night full of laughter and Halloween vibes, Open Stage, in the heart of downtown Harrisburg, is the place to be.
“This is not a traditional Dracula,” said Stuart Landon, the show’s director and Open Stage’s artistic director. “It is the same story but told with tongue firmly planted in cheek.”
You can expect physical gags, silly voices, crazy costumes, quick-changes, and if you’re into monsters, a Dracula you’ll want to sink your teeth into. To those loyal to the original, not to worry; this version is surprisingly faithful to the book, but with a lighthearted twist.
If sexy Dracula isn’t enough, maybe the bar at Open Stage with vampire-themed beverages will turn you. There will be a photo opportunity that includes a giant set of fangs, so you are encouraged to dress up to your heart’s desire. If you’re scared to go alone, take a friend along with you, just make sure they’re of a different blood type. We like options. Oops! Did I say that out loud?
Without spoiling a story that’s been around for over a century and redefined gothic horror, this version starts with a real estate agent named Jonathan Harker who meets with a particularly strange client. After a series of blood-curdling and ridiculous events, Harker and his fiancée, Lucy, enlist the help of the infamous vampire hunter, Van Helsing, and so begins their pursuit of the wicked Count Dracula. Naturally, they get into some tomfoolery and antics along the way.
“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” was written by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen and originally opened off-Broadway in 2023. In a short time, it has made waves throughout the United States and even across the pond in London. At Open Stage, Landon is excited to bring to Harrisburg the unique ways in which his ensemble of skilled actors has added their own unique flair to the production.
This cast features only five players filling dozens of roles. “With everyone playing multiple roles, it’s impressive to see them all take on each character and give them life equally,” said Brad Barkdoll, who plays Count Dracula. “It’s so fun to watch.”
The rest of the cast includes Isaac Austin as Jonathan Harker, Joellen Terranova as Dr. Westfeldt, Jasmine Graham as Lucy and Anthony M.C. Leukus as both Mina and Van Helsing. The understudies are Luke Rider and Areanna Kroll.
The remaining production team is comprised of Stacy Reck (production stage manager) and Chris Krahulec, McCaffrey Martone and Evelyn Dorman (assistant stage managers). Lighting design is by Tristan Stasiulis, costume design by Jacob Schlenker and prop design by Becky Arney. Kalina Barret serves as technical director. Sound design is by Victoria Deiorio, with audio support from Anthony Pieruccini and Wayne Landon.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of comedy horror or just an enjoyer of fun things, be prepared for a journey through high energy and goofy entertainment that will leave you bloodthirsty for more. Your seat is awaiting you at Open Stage.
“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” runs from Oct. 4 to Nov. 1 at Open Stage, 25 N. Court St., Harrisburg. For tickets and more information, visit www.openstagehbg.com.
UPCOMING EVENTS
At Open Stage
www.openstagehbg.com
717-232-6736
EFF Live!
Outrageous live readings of naughty fan fiction
Thursday, Oct. 9, 7:30 p.m.
“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors”
A wild, fast-paced farce with fangs
Oct. 4 to Nov. 1
CASA Presents: “Almost, Maine”
A whimsical, romantic comedy in nine short plays
Oct. 16 to 19
Black NewsBeat: Trick, Treat & Truth
Real talk meets reflection and celebration
Wednesday, Oct. 22, 7 p.m.
Court Street Cabaret
An open mic-style night of Broadway and beyond
Sunday, Oct. 26, 6 p.m.
BaRPG
Drunken role-playing and chaotic quest
Thursday, Oct. 30, 7:30 p.m.
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