"Dracula: Ballet with a Bite" coming to Coastal Carolina
Get an early start on Halloween by wearing your costume to see local boys and "ghouls" perform with the Columbia City Ballet.
The Oct. 4 performance is at 7:30 p.m., and the Oct. 5 show will be at 3 p.m. Admission is $15 adults, and students up to age 18 are free.
The production has an original score by Thomas Semanski and original choreography by Artis-tic Director William Starrett. "Dracula" is a wicked feast for the eyes, with striking theatrical imagery, atmospheric sets, lavish costumes and evocative lighting.
The individual artists also shine in "Dracula." As Count Dracula, Evgueny Tourdiev dances with grace and power. The fear he induces relies on his imposing stoic presence as much as the emblematic cape and fangs.
Prima Ballerina Mariclare Miranda shows her trademark versatility as dancer and actor. As the newly initiated Lucy, trapped by a barrage of Dracula's minions, she spectacularly transforms from sheltered belle to ardent seductress and vamp.
The roles of Jonathan and Mina Harker are played by Ilir Shtylla and Victoria Cholkas, and Arthur Holmwood is danced by Jose Serrano. Betsey Clark, Kathryn Smoak and Regina Willoughby dance the parts of Dracula's maidens.
Call Wheelwright Auditorium at 349-2502 for tickets or information. Tickets for staff, faculty and students will be released beginning Monday, Sept. 29 for the performances.