Dracula
Directed by J.W. Rone

The Ice House Theater Project adds another holiday show to its repertoire, opening “Dracula” for eleven performances on Friday, October 15 at 7:30pm and concluding with a midnight show to welcome in Halloween.

“We hope the audience is going to be frightened,” said director J.W. Rone. “Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’ is a classic piece of literature. The story is central: the decision to become immortal, the repercussions of making a deal with the devil.” Rone reminds parents that “Dracula” is violent and they should exercise discretion in bringing their young children.

The story is set in Victorian London. “The sets are all very dark so the stage seems in limbo with actors floating in space,” said Rone. “ On a screen, it would be called film noir.” Praising the lighting design of Bob Marietta, Rone explained that it creates shadows and unseen objects that become part of the play. Scenery is minimalist created from moveable panels that suggest different locations. “The panels are moved by vixens, creatures of night who move through space constantly,” said Rone. “It’s all very fluid and cinematic.”

Rone went down his list of production operatives. “We have a number of new people involved in the production aspects and they have created a new look,” he said mentioning lighting designer, costumer, stage manager, producer and sound designer. Rone also brought his own special talents to bear on the production creating magic illusions for the effects of Dracula appearing in his coffin and Lucy disappearing into the crypt.

The small cast includes some Ice House favorites like Tom Brooks playing Dracula and Abbie Brown as Renfield as well as new faces like Rebecca MacLeod.

Dracula is sponsored by Portals. Showtimes are 7:30pm on Friday October 15 and 22 and Saturday October 16 and 23. There are four matinees: Saturday, October 16 and 23 at 1pm and Sunday, October 17 and 24 at 3pm. Thursday, October 21 at 7pm is a special, reduced rate show for students and teachers. There are two special Halloween performances on Saturday, October 30 at 7:30pm and at midnight. Call 258-5021 to reserve seats.

The Ice House is located at the corner of Independence and Mercer sts in downtown Berkeley Springs. The Theater Project is produced by the Morgan Arts Council. For more information check www.morganartscouncil.com.