|
Of all the monsters, perhaps the most favorite for parody is Dracula. It may be his all-too-human lust for a pretty neck, or maybe his vulnerability to the most common commodity in the world, sunlight. It might be because he dies from a pierced heart, or perhaps because of his cool accent and aristocratic cape. At any rate, "Dracula: The Musical?" is yet one more hilarious Dracula parody... this time in full voice.
The characters all sound familiar to those who know the original story... except for Bubu Padoop, who is the kind of person her name suggests (but if that is not clear enough, the script describes her as "a frisky friend of the family"). But Bram Stoker never had his characters burst into song at every possibility!
Rick Abbot's characters love to sing. The melodies may not be terribly memorable but they work well within the play and are always a lot of fun. Dr. Seward sings about the joys of working in an institution; Mina sings about romance; the maid sings about being the maid; Dr. Van Helsing sings about the evils of Dracula; and Dracula sings disturbing songs of seduction. Oh yes: Renfield sings a travelogue... several times.
Along with the music is the opportunity for special effects: small explosions, Dracula turning into a bat and flying away, lots of fog, and, if the mood suits you, a tub full of blood.
Employing a small cast, "Dracula: The Musical?" is within the reach of a small theatre group, yet musically and physically stretching enough to be a real challenge.
|
