Dallas, September 30, 2025
News Summary
The Dallas Theater Center has premiered its 65th season with a unique rendition of ‘Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors.’ The performance at the Kalita Humphreys Theater merges horror and humor in a captivating 90-minute show. Written by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen, and directed by Blake Hackler, this production stands out for its comedic timing and dynamic cast. Running until November 3, the show invites audiences into a reimagined tale filled with absurdity and laughter.
Dallas
The Dallas Theater Center has opened its 65th season with “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors.” The show premiered last week at the Kalita Humphreys Theater and runs through November 3. The production is a reimagining of Bram Stoker’s classic that pairs horror elements with broad comedy across a 90-minute performance.
What opened and where
The Dallas Theater Center has opened its 65th season with “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors.” The show premiered last week at the Kalita Humphreys Theater. The production is staged at the Kalita Humphreys Theater and is scheduled through November 3.
Production overview
“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” is a reimagining of Bram Stoker’s classic tale, incorporating both humor and absurdity. The play is written by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen and was directed by Blake Hackler, with an emphasis on precise comedic timing among the cast. The show runs for 90 minutes, including numerous costume and character changes.
Cast and characters
It features a cast of five actors: Captain Milbourn as Count Dracula, Bob Hess, Molly Searcy, Esteban Vilchez, and Sally Nystuen Vahle. The story follows Jonathan Harker’s encounter with Dracula for a real estate deal and his journey to England to meet his fiancée Lucy. Dr. Jean Van Helsing is called to help when Lucy’s sister Mina becomes ill.
Performance notes highlight distinct character approaches: Molly Searcy’s portrayal of Lucy is notable for its empowerment and contrasts with Esteban Vilchez’s nervous Jonathan. Captain Milbourn’s performance as Dracula combines charm, humor, and physical sensuality. Sally Nystuen Vahle and Bob Hess were noted for their comedic chemistry and versatility in multiple roles during the fast-paced staging.
Notable role details
Vahle skillfully portrayed multiple characters, including Dr. Westfield and Renfield. In another versatile turn, Bob Hess dressed in drag as Mina, delivering a humorous performance devoid of clichés.
Design and technical elements
The visual and technical package supports the production’s tonal blend of horror and comedy. The set, designed by Dahlia Al-Habieli, features dark walls and decor, including a neon cross. Costume design by Cole McCarty reflects distinct styles for each character, with particular attention to Dracula’s rock star fashion. The lighting and sound design by Nicole Iannaccone and Joshua Nguyen contributed to the show’s atmosphere.
Context and audience information
The play compresses the source material into a sharp, 90-minute format that relies on rapid character changes and physical comedy. The small cast doubles and quick costume shifts are central to the production’s pace and comic rhythm. The show’s advertised tone emphasizes laughter and absurdity while maintaining recognizable plot points from the original narrative.
“Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” promises big laughs and runs through November 3. Ticketing and scheduling details are available through the theater’s standard box office channels for patrons planning attendance.
Production credits (selected)
- Playwrights: Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen
- Director: Blake Hackler
- Set Designer: Dahlia Al-Habieli
- Costume Designer: Cole McCarty
- Lighting Designer: Nicole Iannaccone
- Sound Designer: Joshua Nguyen
- Cast: Captain Milbourn (Count Dracula), Bob Hess, Molly Searcy, Esteban Vilchez, Sally Nystuen Vahle
- Run time: 90 minutes
- Venue: Kalita Humphreys Theater
- Run through: November 3
FAQ
What production opened the Dallas Theater Center’s 65th season?
The Dallas Theater Center has opened its 65th season with “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors.”
Where and when did the show premiere?
The show premiered last week at the Kalita Humphreys Theater.
Who wrote the play?
The play is written by Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen.
Who is in the cast?
It features a cast of five actors: Captain Milbourn as Count Dracula, Bob Hess, Molly Searcy, Esteban Vilchez, and Sally Nystuen Vahle.
How long is the performance?
The show runs for 90 minutes, including numerous costume and character changes.
What is the basic story?
The story follows Jonathan Harker’s encounter with Dracula for a real estate deal and his journey to England to meet his fiancée Lucy.
Who helps when Mina becomes ill?
Dr. Jean Van Helsing is called to help when Lucy’s sister Mina becomes ill.
Who directed the production?
The production was directed by Blake Hackler, who emphasized comedic timing among the cast.
Which performances were highlighted?
Molly Searcy’s portrayal of Lucy is notable for its empowerment and contrasts with Esteban Vilchez’s nervous Jonathan.
How does Captain Milbourn play Dracula?
Captain Milbourn’s performance as Dracula combines charm, humor, and physical sensuality.
Which actors were noted for versatility and comedy?
Sally Nystuen Vahle and Bob Hess were highlighted for their comedic chemistry and versatility in their roles.
Which characters did Vahle portray?
Vahle skillfully portrayed multiple characters, including Dr. Westfield and Renfield.
What is notable about Bob Hess’s performance?
Bob Hess dressed in drag as Mina, delivering a humorous performance devoid of clichés.
Who designed the set and costumes?
The set, designed by Dahlia Al-Habieli, features dark walls and decor, including a neon cross. Cole McCarty designed costumes that reflect distinct styles, especially Dracula’s rock star fashion.
Who handled lighting and sound?
The lighting and sound design by Nicole Iannaccone and Joshua Nguyen contributed to the show’s atmosphere.
When does the run end?
Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors promises big laughs and runs through November 3.
Production features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Production title | “Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors” |
| Company | Dallas Theater Center |
| Venue | Kalita Humphreys Theater |
| Run time | 90 minutes |
| Run through | November 3 |
| Playwrights | Gordon Greenberg and Steve Rosen |
| Director | Blake Hackler |
| Set design | Dahlia Al-Habieli (dark walls and decor, including a neon cross) |
| Costume design | Cole McCarty (including Dracula’s rock star fashion) |
| Lighting & Sound | Nicole Iannaccone and Joshua Nguyen |
| Cast | Captain Milbourn (Count Dracula), Bob Hess, Molly Searcy, Esteban Vilchez, Sally Nystuen Vahle |
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Additional Resources
- Dallas Voice: Review of Dracula
- AllSides: Van Helsing Movie Party
- Syfy: Chris Pratt on Jurassic World
- IMDb: Movie News
- Wikipedia: Dracula
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Dracula (Novel)
- Google Search: Dracula A Comedy of Terrors
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