New ‘Dracula’ to Premier in Austin

ZACH Theatre has recently announced the cast for Steven Dietz’s new work Dracula, the 2019–20 season opener for ZACH’s Mainstage Series. Commissioned for A Contemporary Theatre (ACT), Steven Dietz’s Dracula will make its regional premiere at ZACH this October before it premieres at ACT this fall. Looking at Bram Stoker’s work with a female-focused 21st century lens, Dietz gives us a new look at this love story through Mina’s perspective. Dracula plays The Topfer at ZACH, September 25–November 3, 2019, under the direction of playwright Steven Dietz.

“I am delighted to revisit my established adaptation of Dracula and bring this story to life in a new and thrilling way,” Dietz expands on his approach to this classic tale. “This version seeks to deliver all the luscious fear of the original, while making Mina – Dracula’s targeted bride – the central detective in charge."

A rendering of the proposed set design. Courtesy image

Austin’s own Steven Dietz creates an all-new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Exquisite and provocative, Dietz’s new adaptation is a sensual fantasy with a surprising twist – a bold heroine who dares to defy the ruler of the night. Mina, the object of Dracula’s desire, is in charge and with steadfast courage sleuths to uncover the mystery. Seductive, romantic, and empowering, Dietz has given us a new spin on the old tale to create a thoughtful and haunting interpretation of the story for a 21st century context.

When: September 25–November 3, 2019
Where: The Topfer at ZACH
Tickets: Start at $25 at zachtheatre.org
Age Recommendation: 13 and up for adult themes
Run time: 85 minutes with no intermission

Special Events in Celebration of Dracula:

• Pride Night with catering by Juliet – Thursday, September 26, 2019

• Wednesday Post-Show Discussion – Wednesday, October 2, 2019

• ASL Interpreted, Open Captioned, and Audio Described – Wednesday, October 2, 2019

• “Halloween Costume Party” with DJ, Costumes, Food and more – Thursday, October 31, 2019

CAST

Michael Sharon – Dracula
Sarah Kimberly Becker – Mina
Joseph Garlock – Harker
Kelli Schultz – Lucy
Jeff Mills – Seward
Charlotte Gulezian – Renfield
Kacey Samiee – Maid/Guard/Vixen/Attendant
Kelsey Mazak – Understudy for Lucy

PRODUCTION TEAM

Steven Dietz – Director and Playwright
Cliff Simon – Scenic Designer
Scott Groh – Properties Designer
Susan Branch Towne – Costume Designer
Helena Kuukka – Lighting Designer
Craig Brock – Sound Designer
Catherine Anne Tucker – Stage Manager