New Adaptation of “Dracula” at Keystone College

The Keystone Players will offer area theatergoers a chance to get a head start on Halloween on Oct. 13, at 7:30 p.m., when they present a new adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

According to Jane Honchell, Director of Theatre, the idea to offer this classic gothic tale came when she realized that Keyston’s Homecoming and Alumni Reunion celebrations would kick off on Friday the 13th. “It was a natural choice to pick a scary play for this fun weekend, since we will open on such an ominous date” Honchell said. She noted that additional performances are scheduled for Oct. 14 and 15 at 2 p.m. in Keystone College’s Brooks Theatre.

After reading a number of Dracula scripts and finding them lacking, Honchell turned to her son, Bill, a lifelong Dracula buff, for help. The result is a new adaptation that stresses Dracula’s human qualities and adds a touch of humor to the gothic story. “I was a little nervous about working with a new script, but Bill’s version is interesting and has a conclusion that will surprise those familiar with the original story. It’s been an exciting collaboration” she said.

Featured in the title role is Justin Kraky, a recent Keystone graduate who manages the college’s radio station. Samantha Watkins plays Mina Harker, the woman Dracula hopes to claim for his own. Kris Campbell plays her husband, Jonathan. Tara Knapp is featured as Lucy, Mina’s lifelong friend, and Gary Bisignani will be Lord Arthur Holmwood, Lucy’s fiance’.

Dr. Seward, whose sanitarium for the insane serves as the setting for much of the action, is played by Dane Bower, and his favorite patient, the insect-eating Mr. Renfield, will be played by Chris Schwartz. Laura Hughes plays the doctor’s cheeky housekeeper.

Leading the struggle against Dracula and his bloodthirsty brides is Professor Van Helsing, played by John Gundling. Laurel Radzieski, Chante Hope, Allison Dowling, Sara Davis, Danielle Dutil, and Senkei Tau are the brides of Dracula.

In keeping with the production’s focus on the need for blood, the Keystone Players will donate a portion of the ticket sales to the Scranton Chapter of the American Red Cross.

For more information or to reserve tickets, call 945-8454. Tickets also may be purchased at the door prior to each performance. General admission is $5, and student tickets are $1. This production may not be suitable for young children.