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NW Missouri Times

Monday, April 7, 2025

Dracula comedy spoof debuts at Theatre Northwest

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Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University

Dr. Lance Tatum, President | Northwest Missouri State University

Theatre Northwest is set to present "Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors" on February 21 and 22. The production, a spoof inspired by the classic vampire story, is part of the Theatre Northwest's Lab Series and features students in various roles such as directing, acting, designing, and stage-managing.

Premiering off-Broadway in 2023 with positive reviews, this comedic take on Dracula promises a high-energy performance. It draws inspiration from Mel Brooks, Monty Python, and "The Carol Burnett Show," with five actors playing over 20 characters in this fast-paced adaptation.

Professor of Theatre Dr. Joe Kreizinger praised the production: “Vampire story fan or not, there is something everyone will enjoy in this cleverly staged production showcasing the creative abilities of many of Northwest’s talented theatre students.” He highlighted both the performers' skills and the technical aspects of the show.

Adam Clayton, a senior theatre performance major from Glenwood, Iowa, directs the play. Clayton expressed enthusiasm for working with his fellow students: “I'm definitely most excited for these actors and letting them kind of just go wild on stage,” he said. “These are very funny people, and just letting them do their thing is really entertaining."

The performances will be held at the Studio Theater within the Ron Houston Center for the Performing Arts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $6 and can be purchased online or at the box office an hour before showtime. Seating availability is limited.

Dr. Kreizinger also noted that productions like this offer valuable experience to students preparing for careers beyond college: “Shows like this are not only highly entertaining to our Northwest community but they also provide excellent profession-based experiences for students who will soon be seeking careers outside of Northwest – whether in theatre, teaching or other areas.”

Following "Dracula," Theatre Northwest's spring schedule includes "God of Carnage" on March 28-29 and concludes with "Pride and Prejudice: A New Musical" from April 10-13.