“Dracula”

Fog flows in the room from windows that mysteriously open by themselves, lights dim, chairs move for no apparent reason, all of this and much more are on tap in the Westchester production of “Dracula.” Directed by Shawn K. Summerer, this is among the finest productions I’ve seen in a long time.

Based on the Bram Stoker novel of the same name, the dialogue is wordy but the cast is prepared. You feel as if you are there and that the gruesome events taking place onstage are for real (although it could be that “up close and personal” theater setup).

One of the surprising things about this play is that the character of “Dracula” was actually changed at the last minute – with Rick Galiher taking over – and very convincingly so. As the program states, “he was a last minute transfusion” – a description that is totally apt. He portrays the outer sophistication and inner secretiveness of Dracula to a “T”.

The character of Van Helsing is also well done by Ben Lupejkis. There is MarLee Candell as Miss Wells and Jeffrey Olin as Butterworth. Jonathan Harker is realistically portrayed by Daniele Manzin, as is Dr. Seward by Ken MacFarlane. The female lead, Lucy Seward, is excellently played by Samantha Barrios. Most shows have a character that seems to stand out from the rest, and, in my opinion, the real show stealer in this production is Paul Guay as Renfield. He is superb!

The elaborate set was designed by Tony Pereslete with lighting by Robert Davis. The period piece costumes were done by Sheridan Cole Crawford and Jon Sparks. Producers are Alison Mattiza and Elizabeth Bouton-Summerer.

Dracula is onstage through Oct. 16 at the Westchester Playhouse, 8301 Hindry Ave in Westchester. Performances, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets, $18, minus $2 for students, seniors, and servicemen. (310) 645-5156 or go to kentwoodplayers.org. ER

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