West Yorkshire Playhouse and Northern Ballet are preparing for a performance with a dramatic bite that will leave audiences thirsty for more.
Last performed in 2009, Northern Ballet’s popular production Dracula is an adaptation of Bram Stoker’s legendary novel first published in 1897. The ballet reveals the tormented world of the immortal Count, a creature who should inspire repulsion in every living thing but has instead seduced countless generations with his mesmerising sensuality. This dark and sinister tale is played out through Northern Ballet’s unique blend of dance, gripping theatre and gothic sets and costumes.
David Nixon said: “The popularity of Bram Stoker’s Dracula has not only outlived its author but also gained popularity and many new interpretations. What would you give to live forever rather than facing the unknown of death? To what ends are we prepared to let our bonds of friendship and love take us? These are among the questions that fascinated me when I approached the ballet. Dracula is often viewed as an evil, preying character but he knows love and will act upon it. All creatures need to be loved and Dracula is no exception, the love he shares with Mina transcends the boundaries of good and evil.”
David Nixon’s choreography and costume designs are complemented by Ali Allen’s set designs which bring the Gothic style of Victorian England and the mysterious medieval world of Transylvania to the stage. Music by Alfred Schnittke, Arvo Pärt, Michael Daugherty and Sergei Rachmaninov complete this spectacular tale of love and immortality.
Dracula is at West Yorkshire Playhouse from 5th – 13th September 2014. Evenings: Tue – Sat 7.30pm
; matinees: Thu and Sat 2.00pm. Tickets are priced between £15 and £36 with concessions. Book online at wyp.org.uk or call box office on 0113 213 7700.
