An absorbing one-act one-woman tour de force
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What’s it about?
This bold reimagining of Dracula blends live theatre and cinematic storytelling, with Cynthia Erivo taking on multiple characters across Bram Stoker’s gothic world. Using a fluid set, live cameras and projected footage, the production constantly shifts between stage performance and filmed experience.
What we loved best
Above all, it’s simply wonderful to witness Cynthia Erivo live on stage. Erivo delivers a powerhouse, tour de force performance. She moves effortlessly between characters showing her versatility, she pulls you into her vortex, she commands the stage. She is truly impressive.
And when she sings a few notes near the end of the play, it only makes you love her more and wish there was the chance for her to sing the whole song.
The film crew also deserves enormous credit. The camera work is flawless, with beautiful shot composition that make the production visually gripping throughout. The intricate set design works exceptionally well on screen and is used to great effect, helping create an atmosphere that feels cinematic yet intimate.
Anything we’d change?
There are a lot of characters to follow, and the dialogue is very fast. I may have missed some of the plot.
The production raises an interesting question: is this theatre or film? Much of the experience is spent watching screens rather than directly watching the stage itself. While the hybrid format is undeniably impressive, the use of film creates a distance from the live performance experience.
Cynthia Erivo is definitely a huge pull in this production, however without her, is it exposing Kip Williams direction style as somewhat repetitive.
Who would enjoy this?
Most theatre-goers would enjoy this production, especially fans of Cynthia Erivo and Kip Williams, those who enjoy ambitious experimental theatre and productions that push the boundaries between stage and screen.
Who created it?
A new adaptation written and directed by Kip Williams
Scenic & Costume Designer – Marg Horwell
Video Designer – Craig Wilkinson
Composer – Clemence Williams
Lighting Design – Nick Schlieper
Sound Designer – Jessica Dunn
The Verdict
Elevated by a magnetic Cynthia Erivo performance that makes the production compelling even when its film-heavy approach blurs the line between cinema and live theatre.