ACT Opens 45th Season with Dracula

Amelia Community Theatre opens its 45th season with a classic adaptation of Bram Stoker's famous vampire story, "Dracula." Beginning Oct. 10, there will be 10 performances of Deane and Balderston's 1927 Broadway version of the play. Set in England at Dr. Seward's sanitarium and residence, the renowned Van Helsing has arrived to investigate the mysterious illness that has weakened Seward's daughter, Lucy. Lucy's fiance, Harker, travels from London to help, and their new neighbor, Count Dracula, shows up unexpectedly, also expressing concern for Lucy.

Count Dracula, one of the most iconic evil characters in Western literature, has been a part of popular culture for over a century and has undoubtedly achieved immortality through merchandising. He has inspired books, movies, Halloween costumes, a Sesame Street character, a breakfast cereal, and numerous plays. Literary critic Brooke Allen says, "Dracula is a character who will undoubtedly outlive us all." Audiences are warned that the show contains violence.

Bringing the legend to life are actors Amy Baker, John Chastine, Jennifer McCarthy, Ryan Sadler, Ron Thompson, Will Wiley, Jason Winesburg, and Patrick Van de Watering as Dracula.

Lucy and Dracula

Director Marylee Long says, "The playwrights have presented a tightly woven tale which details the clash between science and mythology and features a strong dose of both love and courage in an effort to wipe out a formidable opponent."

Dracula

Amelia Community Theatre

209 Cedar Street, Fernandina Beach

7:30 p.m. on Oct. 10-11, 16-18, 23, 25, and at 2 p.m. Oct. 12 and 19.

The opening night audience on October 10 will enjoy a preshow party beginning at 6:30 p.m., featuring decadent sweet treats and blood-red Vampire's Kiss drink samples.

Tickets are $25 for adults and $10 for students, available at the ACT box office by calling 904-261-6749 and through the theatre website.