Writer: Morgan Lloyd Malcolm
Director: Emma Baggot
Emma Baggot’s Dracula might not be quite what you expect, and that’s part of its brilliance. Based on Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel of the same name, this new play by Morgan Lloyd Malcolm retains the Victorian setting while bringing a queer, feminist lens to the story.
Set as a retelling, we quickly learn that Mina Harker, played by Umi Myers, has lost loved ones to the monstrous Dracula. It is her sole purpose to warn against the danger, and so the story of twists and turns begins. The ensemble of players embodies many characters as they jump between the past and present, commenting on the story as they relive it.
There is a clever, if somewhat muddy, insinuation comparing the vampiric violence to sexual violence and an evocative speech by Macy Seelochan warning us to listen to those who cry out before it is too late. The elements make the story feel relevant and punchy while maintaining a ghostly feel.
Baggot’s direction moves the show along swiftly, and the quirky, playful style elevates and matches Lloyd Malcolm’s script. There are jump scares, eerie music, and spooky creatures, but this production gives a lot more than that. This is the sort of theatre that doesn’t need screens or a Netflix budget to transport us, but instead, utilises audience imagination to create magic. Crates are brought to life by the actors, transforming from coffins to carriages to ships. A dark corner of the stage becomes a place to avoid. We travel from London to Transylvania with a few handmade signs.
Dracula shifts between the dark and funny, finding real light and shade in the work. While overall this works well, some moments feel confusing and leave us unsure how to respond. The more vulnerable moments don’t hit as hard as desired, as we watch the performers having an emotional experience instead of taking the audience with them.
Chi-San Howard’s movement direction is precise, creating fantastical, scary creatures, heightening the world. All of the design elements of the show add to the world being created. A striking lighting design by Joshie Harriette not only creates visual illusions and mood but is also an integral part of the storytelling. Set and costume by Grace Smart bring the time period to life with a sexy, contemporary flair.
It is particularly satisfying to watch a diverse and talented cast tell this story at the Lyric. While this interpretation won’t be for every Dracula fan, it is a vibrant piece of theatre that blows the cobwebs off the famous Victorian tale.
Runs until 11 October 2025
