Theatre / Reviews
Review: Dracula, Old Vic
Mark Bruce’s Dracula is not for the faint-hearted. This sinister production, however, is as mesmerising as it haunting.
There is a Tim Burton-esque gothic set for this Tobacco Factory Theatres production at the Old Vic.
A pale, possessed Dracula, demonically played by Jonathan Goddard, clutches a “swag bag” over his shoulder, which holds a newborn baby, much to the distress of its mother. It is at this point you realise the sheer brutality of the lead.
Harker (Wayne Parsons) embarks on an adventure to conclude a real estate transaction with Count Dracula, with fateful and tragic consequences.
Three vampire brides effectively add light relief and enhance the blood-thirst when required.
The set does not change dramatically between scenes so the three women are relied upon to transport the audience to a different location and mood and they do so brilliantly.
There is no dialogue between performers; this production is all about the movement, which is exceptionally executed through visceral dance and is both haunting and erotic.
A soundtrack varies from Mozart to the aggressive hum of bees, all adding to the atmosphere.
This bloodthirsty production is utterly thrilling. At points you feel as though you’re hallucinating but the intensity frequently gives way to black humour, which only keeps you in suspense of the next chill.
Dracula is on at Bristol Old Vic until October 4. For more information and tickets, visit www.bristololdvic.org.uk/dracula.html.
Photos by Farrows Creative.
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