Dracula - Hartford Stage

The novel Dracula, by Bram Stoker, is a classic Victorian Gothic work of literature.  It can be quite scary, with enough chills and heart-palpitating moments to give even the bravest souls the jitters.  The frights, with an exception or two, are what is missing from the production of Dracula, receiving its American premiere, at Hartford Stage.  Playwright Morgan Lloyd-Malcolm is more concerned with injecting the show with a feminist, sociopolitical point of view than providing a truly entertaining piece of theater. 

Scout Backus in Dracula at Hartford Stage.  Photo by T. Charles Erickson.

In this production, which can become somewhat confusing, an actress playing the role of Mina, a secondary character in the novel, is narrating a play within a play with just a handful of actors playing various roles.  It is a cautionary tale, spotlighting the terrors in the world.  Mina, played with a forcefulness and vitality by Sara Gutierrez, provides a great deal of exposition, which feels, sometimes, like she is lecturing to the audience.  She relates the tale of Count Dracula, which, due to the show’s brevity of 100 minutes and shortage of plot, might be hard to follow for people unfamiliar with the novel. 

Sara Gutierrez in Dracula at Hartford Stage.  Photo by T. Charles Erickson.

Jonathan Harker (Luca Dixon), Mina’s husband, is the focus of the production as the story unfolds.  He travels to The Count’s castle in Transylvania to finalize real estate transactions as the vampire looks to move to London.  Back in the British capital, the emphasis is on stopping his reign of terror.   In Lloyd-Malcolm’s rendering, Dracula is seen as a shadowy figure.  His attention is on Lucy (Scout Backus), Mina’s best friend.  The scenes of him attacking the young woman can prove terrifying, as is the moment Mina herself is assailed by him.  The ensemble, which includes vampire hunter Van Helsing, Lucy’s lovers, and a deranged Renfield, is woven into the story, leading to a final confrontation and the destruction of The Count.

The production, as directed by Jackson Gay, comes in fits and starts.  When the show is moving steadily forward, utilizing Paul Whitaker’s sometimes bold, often muted Lighting Design; Caroline Eng’s often eerie Sound Design,; and Riw Rakkulchon’s functional, uncluttered Scenic Design, the show can percolate.  Fabian Fidel Aguilar’s spider-like creations are decidedly creepy and truly frightening.  But when the narration, especially at the end of the play, takes over, it can sputter. 

Lucas Dixon in Dracula at Hartford Stage.  Photo by T. Charles Erickson.

The other two principal cast members, in addition to Gutierrez, are well-suited for their roles.  Lucas Dixon’s Jonathan Harker brings a Victorian staidness and, at times, a prideful haughtiness to his role.  Scout Backus as Lucy is a valiant victim.  She imbues her role with potency and vigor before coming under the spell of The Count.  The ensemble – Caitlin Elizabeth Clouthier, Anney Giobbe, and Pauli  -  in their multiple roles, provide sufficient support to the main characters.

Dracula, playing at Hartford Stage through November 1.  Click here for dates, times, and ticket information.