[TheDarkGift] Dracula in Vienna: "Count Dracula" at the International Theatre

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Dracula in Vienna: "Count Dracula" at the International Theatre by Massimo Introvigne Ted Tillerâs âCount Draculaâ opened on January 20, 2003 at Vienna International Theatre (in English). I was pleased to see this play, a praiseworthy enterprise by a small company, and more pleased to discover that the audience was instructed about Dracula and Stoker by educational panels in the foyer mostly including excerpt from Elizabeth Millerâs works. Tillerâs Dracula is not entirely loyal to Stoker, but so are almost all theatrical (and movie) adaptations. Mina becomes the ward of Dr Seward, and Dr Van Helsingâs first name (for whatever reason) is Heinrich. The most original innovation is the introduction of a (non-Stokerian) sister of Dr Seward, who is slightly out of her mind and provides (as well as involuntary help to Dracula) significant comic relief for the audience. Laura Mitchell plays this âSybil Sewardâ with competence and brio. Gene DeWild is a persuasive Van Helsing, and all the other actors do their own good jobs. For Stoker aficionados, Dracula (Brian Hatfield), is too young and Mina simply too good-looking. In fact, the beautiful Nina Schneider would have made a wonderful Lucy, but the latter is mentioned rather than seen. Non-Stokerian are less likely to notice the discrepancies and will simply enjoy Hatfieldâs and Schneiderâs performances (not to mention good looks). Horror with a touch of comedy, âCount Draculaâ makes a nice addition to the rich history of theatrical Draculas. Recommended.   Come one come all Mortals who are willing to stick their neck out for a vampire to feed upon.  We will be willing to share our Dark Gift to you mortals if you pass our test. Yahoo! Groups Sponsor ADVERTISEMENT Yahoo! Groups Links To visit your group on the web, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TheDarkGift/   To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to: [EMAIL PROTECTED]   Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.