Western Carolina University’s Steve Carlisle, Bruce Frazier and Don Connelly combine their talents for the radio production of Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
The production featured a talented orchestra, dancers, exquisite sound effects, and a gripping story that kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
The decision to produce Dracula was in part due to the 100-year anniversary of Bram Stoker’s death.
“People like these broadcasts because they’ve never seen anything like this before,” said Don Connelly, Head of the Department of Communication.
The nearly sold out show was a hit for all ages and a new experience for some.
“I’ve never seen a radio production before and I’ve never seen anything quite like this, “said Jake Myers, Communication major and freshman.
The broadcast featured a 40 piece orchestra, that set the chilling mood for the dark story. What can be expected next has yet to be decided.
Five departments from WCU cooperated on the project: Communication Department, English Department , Honors College, School of Music and School of Stage and Screen. It also had members of the Ashville Symphony Orchestra.
Students in English 498, Senior Seminar in English, provided research papers featured in the program and a poster session in the lobby prior to the performance. Luther Jones, assistant professor of theatre, compiled a lobby display featuring a vampire killing kit, various weapons of the period and a replica
wooden coffin all mentioned in the script.
The show was at the John W. Bardo Fine and Performing Arts Center, Jan.24.
KB Carpenter contributed to the story.
