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1976

Dracula

Written by Pip Simmons

Play Details

Context

Artistic Director 
Robert Kidd & Nicholas Wright

Co-production with Pip Simmons Group

 

Dates Performed

Tuesday 7th December 1976
Jerwood Theatre Downstairs

Play Details

Synopsis

In a dilapidated castle, the shadows of ancient evils loom over the inhabitants as night falls.

Dracula, adapted by Pip Simmons, reimagines Bram Stoker’s classic vampire tale through an avant-garde lens. This bold adaptation strips the story down to its primal fears and gothic horror, focusing on the visceral and psychological terror that Dracula inflicts on his victims. Simmons’ production is known for its intense physicality, immersive atmosphere, and stark visual style, pushing the boundaries of conventional theatre to create an experience that is both harrowing and captivating.

The play delves deep into the psyche of Jonathan Harker, Mina, Lucy, and Van Helsing as they grapple with the malevolent influence of Count Dracula. Simmons’ version emphasizes the psychological torment and the seductive allure of Dracula, making the audience question the nature of evil and the vulnerability of the human spirit. The use of minimalistic yet haunting set designs, along with innovative lighting and sound, amplifies the eerie and oppressive mood that pervades the play.

Director(s)

Pip Simmons

Poster credit

Poster courtesy of V&A Theatre and Performance Archive

Cast & Creative

Cast

Ben Bazell

Cast

Rod beddall

Cast

Sheila Burnett

Cast

Meirav Cary

Cast

Peter Jonfield

Cast

Chris Jordan

Cast

Roderic Leigh

Cast

Peter Oliver

Cast

Emil Wolk