Note from the Director & Choreographer

It has been three years since we last brought Dracula to the big stage, and it feels wonderful to be back.

This is such a rewarding production to be a part of. Philip Feeney’s incredible musical score, combined with the choreography, creates an atmosphere that demands both precision and imagination from the dancers. Bringing that choreography to life, and doing the music justice, has been a wonderful challenge, and with this talented group of dancers, I believe we have accomplished just that.

One of my favorite parts of creating a ballet is developing the character of each dancer. It is that process of discovering who these characters are, and allowing each dancer to bring their own individuality to the role, that ultimately breathes life into the choreography.

We are also fortunate to welcome professional guest dancers into this production. Their presence not only adds another dimension to the performance, but supports an important part of the mission of MainStage Academy of Dance and BrayBallet Company: bringing classical ballet to our community in a meaningful and thoughtful way, and sharing this incredible art form with audiences like you.

This year, I also wanted to find a way to include some of our youngest dancers, dancers who are enthusiastic, talented, and eager for the opportunity to perform. Their roles have been carefully woven into the production to give them valuable stage experience while preserving the atmosphere and spirit of Dracula. I think you will enjoy seeing them become part of this world.

This is a small cast with a great deal of talent, dedication, and heart. I hope you will sit back, relax, and allow yourself to be drawn into the story, the music, and the world we have created onstage.

Thank you for being here and for supporting live performance and classical ballet in our community. We are thrilled to share Dracula with you, and what better way to sink your teeth into the Halloween season?

Enjoy the performance!

— Eddy Bray
Artistic Director