Improv Playhouse presents Bram Stoker's “Dracula” as a staged radio drama
This October, prepare for a thrilling theatrical experience as Improv Playhouse presents “Dracula,” the iconic Bram Stoker novel brought to life as a staged radio drama using the original 1938 Orson Welles script. Performances will take place on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 25 and 26, at Improv Playhouse Theater, 735 N. Milwaukee, Libertyville.
Directed by Improv Playhouse Founder David Brian Stuart, this production pays homage to the golden age of radio. Welles' little-known hourlong radio adaptation of “Dracula” was originally broadcast on July 11, 1938, just months before his infamous “War of the Worlds” broadcast.
“This adaptation is by far the closest to the original novel,” Stuart said. “The radio drama format allows the audience to immerse themselves fully in the tension and terror that Stoker crafted in his story, while maintaining the suspenseful atmosphere that Welles masterfully brought to life.”
The production features a cast of local talent. Daniel Plumhoff of Gurnee steps into the role of the sinister Count Dracula, a dream role he's been eager to take on.
“It's been a lifelong ambition to portray Dracula. There are so many layers to this character,” Plumhoff said. Sharing the stage with him is his father, Stephen Plumhoff, a veteran of Improv Playhouse productions, who plays Dr. Seward, one of Dracula's principal adversaries.
“Playing Dracula’s enemy is especially fun since my son is Dracula! We always get along great; now I get the chance to 'take him down' on stage!” Stephen said with a smile.
Other standout cast members include Mia Hirschel of Lake Zurich (AFTRA-SAG) as Mina, Susan Kries of Vernon Hills as Lucy, Egon Schein of Libertyville as Van Helsing, Dan Ness of Palatine as Harker, Ted Rafferty of Schaumburg as the captain of the ill-fated Demeter, and Jerry Hirschel of Lake Zurich, rounding out the ensemble.
Improv Playhouse’s Radio Players re-create the magic of live radio theater, where sound effects and voice acting conjure a vivid world in the audience’s imagination.
“The story is presented through diary entries and newspaper clippings, just like the original novel,” Stuart said. “With meticulously timed sound effects, we transport the audience back to a time when radio dramas captivated listeners across the nation … The genius of Welles' adaptation lies in its ability to leave the audience in suspense, wondering what will happen next. It’s pure 'theater of the mind.' And I promise, no spoilers here; you’ll have to join us to see how it all unfolds.”
In keeping with the festive Halloween spirit, Improv Playhouse will offer treats and surprises throughout the evening. Guests arriving in costume at the door will receive $2 off their cash ticket price.
“It’s going to be a family-friendly evening of clean, spooky fun,” Stuart said. “Unlike Orson Welles, who both directed and played Dracula in the original production, I’ll stick to directing and leave the spine-tingling performance to our talented cast.”
Performances are at 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 25; 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 26
Tickets are $17.50 for adults, $15 for age 65 and older and $7.50 for students in advance; and $20 for all adults and $10 for students at the door ($2 off for those in costume).
This is a family-friendly show. To purchase tickets, visit improvplayhouse.com, or call (847) 968-4529.
Improv Playhouse has been a cornerstone of the Libertyville arts community for over 25 years, offering high-quality performances, education, and entertainment. Dedicated to “Entertain, Educate, Elevate,” Improv Playhouse continues to push the boundaries of creative theater and enrich the lives of its audience through dynamic programming.