The story of Count Dracula has captivated audiences since the publication of Bram Stoker’s novel in 1897. Since its publication, the story has been transformed into countless theatrical and film productions, the definitive arguably being the 1931 film starring the incomparable Bela Lugosi. Complete with a bloodthirsty vampire and his female victims, Texas Ballet Theater is presenting its take on the classic story in the form of a ballet over the next two weekends.
Texas Ballet Theater is Dallas’ foremost residential ballet company. Artistic director of the company, Ben Stevenson is an internationally known dancer and choreographer. It is his original choreography that accompanies the music of composer Franz Liszt in the adaptation of the classic story, currently performed at both the Music Hall at Fair Park and the Bass Performance Hall.
The performance opens upon the count and his many wives as they awaken in the crypt of a castle and begin to airily float across the stage in a never-ending tangle of white-lace skirts and outstretched arms. The performers come together and break away from each other in their seductive dance as each one takes her turn being escorted by the count for his carnal appeasement. Dim lights, fog and ghostly makeup characterize the first act.
The second act is dramatically different. Setting the scene in a peaceful village at the bottom of the count’s mountain, festivities are in full swing celebrating the birthday of a beautiful young woman and her marriage to her lover. Dancers clothed in bright colors and smiles take turns showing their talents to the others on stage and the audience. Although the happiness seems overwhelming, the inevitable soon occurs when the count abducts the beautiful Svetlana and escorts her to his castle, which concludes the act.
In the third act, the audience is transported back into the dark lair of Dracula’s castle where Dracula’s wives once again leap and pirouette across the stage accompanied by the atmospheric music of Liszt. Though the situation seems doubtful, the lovely Svetlana is rescued in the nick of time by her fiance and father who, with the help of a cross, garlic and some sunlight, defeat Dracula and escort the lovely Svetlana back home.
Even those who are not ordinarily fans of ballet will find something to love in this performance. Although the story is concerned with the classic plotline of good versus evil, it manages to be modern and fun. It boasts the tremendous talents of the company’s dancers and visually delights with an array of gothic costumes and creative lighting design which add to the atmosphere.
Overall, the performance is highly entertaining and has elements that can appeal to anyone. At a Sunday afternoon matinee, the audience consisted of both ballet connoisseurs and members of the cult-like following “Dracula” has accumulated over the years. Women and men dressed in the gothic fashion of the story and senior citizens dressed in their Sunday best sat side by side as they gazed wide-eyed at the spectacle taking place before them.
