Reviews Dracula
Last night was the first night of Carabosse’s Dracula. It was a stunning show, the detail and artistry throughout was magnificent.
The projections were stunning; the sinuous movement of the actors mesmerising; the choir ethereal; costumes amazing - and that’s just the audience! How the actors sustained their movement throughout, was quite extraordinary. The whole show was brilliantly directed and choreographed!
My Level 3 art students from Milton Keynes College were generously invited to create Dracula inspired artworks to exhibit in the Pop up gallery alongside the theatre production. I’m proud to say their work looks terrific!
Our gratefull thanks go to Sally Luff for the opportunity to showcase the work of young artists backed by Arts council England.
Kate Boatfield - MK College Tutor
To attend a performance of Dracula on Halloween is indeed a special occasion. To do it where the audience have dressed up in ‘Victoriana’ really made it feel extra spooky.
The story opens when Johnathan (Andrew Gibbons) travels to meet Dracula and sees things that cannot be unseen. He escapes and his fiancée comes to rescue him but he is a changed man from his experiences. His fiancée, Mina (Danni Kushner) is friends with Lucy (Abigail Thorne) who writes regularly to Mina about her choice of men. Lucy flirts wildly with Dr Seward (Alexander JC Forni), Quincey (Michael Hutchinson) and Arthur Holmwood (Dennis French), that latter of whom she later marries. When Lucy becomes unwell, Dr Seward is called to help and he in turn calls Van Helsing (Debbie Leonard) to try to resolve this mystery. Dr Seward is also fascinated with his patients at his mental hospital, especially one called Renfield (Sean Calvert).
This is my first experience of a Carabosse production and I have to say I am hugely impressed. I firstly want to talk about Dracula. There are actually two Draculas which is a genius piece of direction. Both versions were exquisitely acted. There is romantic, sexy (and sometimes its quite raunchy on stage) Dracula (Jordan Murphy) which makes the 80’s goth in me want to give myself over to him. And then there is the older, scary, vulgar yet still compelling Dracula (Tim Dalgleish) who has no compassion and seems proud of his status and his reputation.
In act two Harker, Mina, Van Helsing, Seward, Quincey and Arthur make efforts to track down Dracula for the good of the world. The climax of the show is the good versus evil tale of old, and we are torn between wanting good to win and being seduced by Dracula, well at least I am. There is such a lot going on stage, it’s a detailed and complex production and you do need to pay attention to absorb it all. There are often two scenes playing out in tandem, alongside use of projection images to one side and at the backdrop to help set the scenes. It is very effective and keeps your attention. I want to give a special shout out to the inmates of the mental hospital. On stage for practically the whole show and never slipped out of character. It was mesmerising to watch.
Jasmine Storm
Jasmine Storm's Reviews and Views.
I loved the Vampire Nation end of the story. The speech felt like we needed to save the planet for future generations but instead of discussing climate change, it was about saving and preserving the food chain for vampires. The speech was so rousing I wanted to join them. The cast are exceptional. I am blown away that we have so much talent locally and can enjoy such wonderful productions on our doorstep. This would be a sell out in any city, including Whitby. I also loved hearing Bauhaus’ Bela Lugosi’s Dead in the interval. The music has been really considered to that kind of detail.
It really feels immersive. I felt totally captivated by the performances and storytelling. The direction is phenomenal and I can honestly say I have not seen anything like this before. This is a classy production of a spellbinding show. Dracula is at Stantonbury Theatre until 4 November.
And don’t miss the extraordinary Dracula themed pop-up art exhibition in the bar curated by students of MK College.
Was kindly invited to the opening night of Dracula by local company Carabosse, so we got our Victorian swag on. An ambitious and bold production of this classic horror story. Fantastic set and excellent performances, most notably from young Dracula, Renfield and Lucy. Plenty of dry ice but not too much gore.
Carole Mathews - Sunday Times Bestselling Author
To everyone involved in the show (which I saw last night) but particularly to Sally. I could see what a huge project this was and just how much hard work has gone into it, no mean feat. What was particularly lovely to see, was the number of people involved, and the bringing together of new people, friends and family from all walks of life to make it into what it was, from singers, actors and musicians, to carpenters, prop makers, artists and photographers, and this is where the magic of community is. I haven’t seen that in a long time. Everyone’s excitement at the end was a true indication of what the show had meant to each person. You must be elated and exhausted. Well done all and many congratulations again. ❤️🙂
Shaznaz Hussain
Fabulous production that left me thinking that there is a very fine line between madness and sanity! I loved the multi sensory experience - the imagery projected onto the screens created an additional eerie ambiance. The duality of the scenes on stage depicting the powerfully contrasting perspectives was superbly directed and delivered by the cast. Amazing - passion and evil portrayed to perfection. I loved it! 😀
Alison Lewis
I have seen shows in the West End that are not fit to tie the shoe laces of this production, it was awesome
Chelsea John
It really was an excellent show. The visual and sound effects were top notch, as were the performances of everyone on stage. Like everyone else in the audience I'm sure, I didn't expect to hear Radiohead's 'Creep', especially the unedited (and correct in my opinion) version! Again, I tip my hat to everyone involved in this production.
Came to the show last night. My son was there as part of his A Level English Language studies and I decided to go along myself rather than just drop him off and pick him up afterwards. I thought 'a new adaptation' would be interesting as Stoker's book is one of my all time favourites, as well as that version of the film. There were certainly some surprises, thats for sure! The visial effects were superb, as was the audio, especially as I was sat right at the back. I tip my hat to everyone involved, front and back of stage and, a special mention does go to Abigail Thorne, aka Lucy, whilst not taking anything away from the rest of the cast.
I went home impressed, discussing the performance with my son, who will have plenty to write about.
TAKE A BOW 👏❤️👏❤️
Bravo!
Brian Marshall
Such a mesmerising awesome, chilling play, I absolutely loved being a part of it, I watched the 1st act with family on the last night and felt well enough to join our chorus in the second, a joy to be able to take part again and to sing that beautiful song Dracula, that has haunted me, in a good way, for weeks 😁 Hat's off to all the cast and crew, Sally, what a force of energy and took us with her, Jill and her wonderful costumes, so talented, a brilliant bunch of amiable, funny, people its been my pleasure to meet ❤
Joyce Willey
It was just brilliant from start to finish, a massive well done from me to all involved, so much work went into it and it showed. This show needs to be seen by many many more people, and I really hope you get to put it on again sometime. This show must go on! It was spellbinding from start to finish, the acting, the set, the lighting, the projections, the wardrobe, the choir, the props the art work in the foyer, the programne design, all of it, it was just so professionally delivered. Thank you for sharing with MK and lets hope beyond....I missed the magician somehow, perhaps he disappeared
What a show 👏👏👏💖 Well done from the front to the back and everyone in between. You ended that on a huge high👏
Emma Street
This production was an absolute triumph - I've never seen the tale of Dracula brought to life more vividly or passionately. It was quite stunning
Julian Self
Wowsers - an amazing wonderment 🤩
Pao Pincerno
They were phenomenal 🙌
Dawn Kershaw ( talking about the MK Women’s Choir)
Congratulations to everyone involved in the show (which I saw last night) but particularly to Sally. I could see what a huge project this was and just how much hard work has gone into it, no mean feat. What was particularly lovely to see, was the number of people involved, and the bringing together of new people, friends and family from all walks of life to make it into what it was, from singers, actors and musicians, to carpenters, prop makers, artists and photographers, and this is where the magic of community is. I haven’t seen that in a long time. Everyone’s excitement at the end was a true indication of what the show had meant to each person. You must be elated and exhausted. Well done all and many congratulations again. ❤️🙂
Shahnaz Hussain
Epic is the right word! Congratulations on bringing such a challenging book to the stage. Well done everyone backstage, on stage and front of house👏. Sorry I couldn't stop after the show, I had to get up early for an all day rehearsal and there were so many already congratulating you all I couldn't have got near anyway! Enjoy your last few shows!
Sue Whyte
Came to see this amazing shoe tonight. The whole cast and choir were amazing. Standing ovation all around. Well deserved
Melanie White
You did a cracking job Sally Luff, your words are absolutely right, keep it moving and developing as it deserves a wider audience. Absolutely well done to you for all your hard work 💕💕
Debra Danu Mathews
It was absolutely amazing!! Congratulations!! 🥰🥳
Nicky Prince
Sally the show was brilliant and very thought provoking. It was such a professional production and wonderfully acted. Thanks to all the cast and crew for a great evening. 💕
Paul Moss
It was fang - tastic! Loved it and the set was incredible, as were the actors and choir! Can’t wait to come and support whatever is next x
Amy Sharpe
Thank you Sally for inviting me to take part, I thoroughly enjoyed working with you and the fab cast, the amazing choir and brilliant production team.
Phil Underwood
Just fabulous to be involved 🧛
Yvonne Patel
Congratulations to Carabosse Theatre Company for the AMAZING Dracula performance! You have deserved a well-earned REST now!
Maja Dunn
I have just had the most incredible time being part of this wonderful play. We all had professional voice coaching (my Romanian accent is still questionable) a professional dance teacher (apologies to Phil for toe squashing) and two amazing hair and makeup professionals who restored my eyebrows and exposed my forehead which hasn't been seen for many years. I am in awe of the talent in Carabosse and am truly blessed to have been part of this fabulous production. Sally Luff had a vision and brought it to the stage in the most incredible way and I thank her for giving me the opportunity to be part of it 💖
Judith Brooker
Absolutely magical. I have been to theatre productions in London , Paris & Rome and this performance was as professional as any of those. Well done all of you ❤️💕❤️💕
Christine Robinson Hughes
It was fantastic really enjoyed coming last night you all were so amazing.
Susan Webb
Well ladies we did it Milton Keynes Women's Choir ....just thinking about the past week huge thanks to Nicky for believing in us and all at Carabosse for being so welcoming and supportive. Thanks to Sally Luff for your vision and support.
Jessica Gregson
It was a privilege to see it, and amazing cast and production.
Mark Denman ( singer : songwriter of Dracula theme song )
What a thoroughly amazing production! Congratulations to every single one of you
You were all Incredible! Creep and Feeling Good are two of my most favourite songs and you made me love them even more! You performed the chorus’ role flawlessly, perfectly sinister! I applaud you all x
Shelly Wyn-de-Bank
What a great experience! Thankyou very much Sally Luff and Nicky for the opportunity. Loved it! Xxx
Denise Underwood
Been brilliant experience one didn’t think l wouldn’t ever have opportunity to do
Angela Eldred
Loved the whole experience. Especially last night. All the nerves were gone and it was simply pure empowerment and enjoyment and family.
sally Anne Watts
You brought a whole other dimension to the show. My spine has only just stopped tingling.
Rod Ehre
Carabosse - What an Absolutely amazing Theatre group you are, and so much more. You should all feel immense proud in the production, it truly was EPIC!
I so loved the Opening night, you were just magical!
We’ll dome Sally for bringing your dream ‘to life’! You truly are 1 in a million & so proud of what you’ve achieved. Xx
MK Women’s Choir - you Rock!
Xx🧛🏻♥️
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work Back Stage, loved every moment &
Want more !! Long Live the 🧛🏻 xx
Tina Milner
Absolutely amazing, Denise said you were in a play. Looks great fun 😃 well done xxx
Josephine Pressnell
We were there on Friday. Enjoyed it very much. I particularly liked your dancing Leonora Jackson!
Julian Pentz
Great photos and makeup and costumes look awesome.
Sue Mahoney
It was absolutely fantastic really enjoyed it
Sonya Gee
What an awesome show
How lucky is Mk to have Dracula - a new adaption by Carabosse Theatre Company
Bravo 🙌 🎭
Hannah Thomas
Last night was the first night of Carabosse’s Dracula. It was a stunning show, the detail and artistry throughout was magnificent.
The projections were stunning; the sinuous movement of the actors mesmerising; the choir ethereal; costumes amazing - and that’s just the audience! How the actors sustained their movement throughout, was quite extraordinary. The whole show was brilliantly directed and choreographed!
My Level 3 art students from Milton Keynes College were generously invited to create Dracula inspired artworks to exhibit in the Pop up gallery alongside the theatre production. I’m proud to say their work looks terrific!
Our gratefull thanks go to Sally Luff for the opportunity to showcase the work of young artists backed by Arts council England.
Kate Boatfield - MK College Tutor
To attend a performance of Dracula on Halloween is indeed a special occasion. To do it where the audience have dressed up in ‘Victoriana’ really made it feel extra spooky.
The story opens when Johnathan (Andrew Gibbons) travels to meet Dracula and sees things that cannot be unseen. He escapes and his fiancée comes to rescue him but he is a changed man from his experiences. His fiancée, Mina (Danni Kushner) is friends with Lucy (Abigail Thorne) who writes regularly to Mina about her choice of men. Lucy flirts wildly with Dr Seward (Alexander JC Forni), Quincey (Michael Hutchinson) and Arthur Holmwood (Dennis French), that latter of whom she later marries. When Lucy becomes unwell, Dr Seward is called to help and he in turn calls Van Helsing (Debbie Leonard) to try to resolve this mystery. Dr Seward is also fascinated with his patients at his mental hospital, especially one called Renfield (Sean Calvert).
This is my first experience of a Carabosse production and I have to say I am hugely impressed. I firstly want to talk about Dracula. There are actually two Draculas which is a genius piece of direction. Both versions were exquisitely acted. There is romantic, sexy (and sometimes its quite raunchy on stage) Dracula (Jordan Murphy) which makes the 80’s goth in me want to give myself over to him. And then there is the older, scary, vulgar yet still compelling Dracula (Tim Dalgleish) who has no compassion and seems proud of his status and his reputation.
In act two Harker, Mina, Van Helsing, Seward, Quincey and Arthur make efforts to track down Dracula for the good of the world. The climax of the show is the good versus evil tale of old, and we are torn between wanting good to win and being seduced by Dracula, well at least I am. There is such a lot going on stage, it’s a detailed and complex production and you do need to pay attention to absorb it all. There are often two scenes playing out in tandem, alongside use of projection images to one side and at the backdrop to help set the scenes. It is very effective and keeps your attention. I want to give a special shout out to the inmates of the mental hospital. On stage for practically the whole show and never slipped out of character. It was mesmerising to watch.
Jasmine Storm
Jasmine Storm's Reviews and Views.
I loved the Vampire Nation end of the story. The speech felt like we needed to save the planet for future generations but instead of discussing climate change, it was about saving and preserving the food chain for vampires. The speech was so rousing I wanted to join them. The cast are exceptional. I am blown away that we have so much talent locally and can enjoy such wonderful productions on our doorstep. This would be a sell out in any city, including Whitby. I also loved hearing Bauhaus’ Bela Lugosi’s Dead in the interval. The music has been really considered to that kind of detail.
It really feels immersive. I felt totally captivated by the performances and storytelling. The direction is phenomenal and I can honestly say I have not seen anything like this before. This is a classy production of a spellbinding show. Dracula is at Stantonbury Theatre until 4 November.
And don’t miss the extraordinary Dracula themed pop-up art exhibition in the bar curated by students of MK College.
Was kindly invited to the opening night of Dracula by local company Carabosse, so we got our Victorian swag on. An ambitious and bold production of this classic horror story. Fantastic set and excellent performances, most notably from young Dracula, Renfield and Lucy. Plenty of dry ice but not too much gore.
Carole Mathews - Sunday Times Bestselling Author
To everyone involved in the show (which I saw last night) but particularly to Sally. I could see what a huge project this was and just how much hard work has gone into it, no mean feat. What was particularly lovely to see, was the number of people involved, and the bringing together of new people, friends and family from all walks of life to make it into what it was, from singers, actors and musicians, to carpenters, prop makers, artists and photographers, and this is where the magic of community is. I haven’t seen that in a long time. Everyone’s excitement at the end was a true indication of what the show had meant to each person. You must be elated and exhausted. Well done all and many congratulations again. ❤️🙂
Shaznaz Hussain
Fabulous production that left me thinking that there is a very fine line between madness and sanity! I loved the multi sensory experience - the imagery projected onto the screens created an additional eerie ambiance. The duality of the scenes on stage depicting the powerfully contrasting perspectives was superbly directed and delivered by the cast. Amazing - passion and evil portrayed to perfection. I loved it! 😀
Alison Lewis
I have seen shows in the West End that are not fit to tie the shoe laces of this production, it was awesome
Chelsea John
It really was an excellent show. The visual and sound effects were top notch, as were the performances of everyone on stage. Like everyone else in the audience I'm sure, I didn't expect to hear Radiohead's 'Creep', especially the unedited (and correct in my opinion) version! Again, I tip my hat to everyone involved in this production.
Came to the show last night. My son was there as part of his A Level English Language studies and I decided to go along myself rather than just drop him off and pick him up afterwards. I thought 'a new adaptation' would be interesting as Stoker's book is one of my all time favourites, as well as that version of the film. There were certainly some surprises, thats for sure! The visial effects were superb, as was the audio, especially as I was sat right at the back. I tip my hat to everyone involved, front and back of stage and, a special mention does go to Abigail Thorne, aka Lucy, whilst not taking anything away from the rest of the cast.
I went home impressed, discussing the performance with my son, who will have plenty to write about.
TAKE A BOW 👏❤️👏❤️
Bravo!
Brian Marshall
Such a mesmerising awesome, chilling play, I absolutely loved being a part of it, I watched the 1st act with family on the last night and felt well enough to join our chorus in the second, a joy to be able to take part again and to sing that beautiful song Dracula, that has haunted me, in a good way, for weeks 😁 Hat's off to all the cast and crew, Sally, what a force of energy and took us with her, Jill and her wonderful costumes, so talented, a brilliant bunch of amiable, funny, people its been my pleasure to meet ❤
Joyce Willey
It was just brilliant from start to finish, a massive well done from me to all involved, so much work went into it and it showed. This show needs to be seen by many many more people, and I really hope you get to put it on again sometime. This show must go on! It was spellbinding from start to finish, the acting, the set, the lighting, the projections, the wardrobe, the choir, the props the art work in the foyer, the programne design, all of it, it was just so professionally delivered. Thank you for sharing with MK and lets hope beyond....I missed the magician somehow, perhaps he disappeared
What a show 👏👏👏💖 Well done from the front to the back and everyone in between. You ended that on a huge high👏
Emma Street
This production was an absolute triumph - I've never seen the tale of Dracula brought to life more vividly or passionately. It was quite stunning
Julian Self
Wowsers - an amazing wonderment 🤩
Pao Pincerno
They were phenomenal 🙌
Dawn Kershaw ( talking about the MK Women’s Choir)
Congratulations to everyone involved in the show (which I saw last night) but particularly to Sally. I could see what a huge project this was and just how much hard work has gone into it, no mean feat. What was particularly lovely to see, was the number of people involved, and the bringing together of new people, friends and family from all walks of life to make it into what it was, from singers, actors and musicians, to carpenters, prop makers, artists and photographers, and this is where the magic of community is. I haven’t seen that in a long time. Everyone’s excitement at the end was a true indication of what the show had meant to each person. You must be elated and exhausted. Well done all and many congratulations again. ❤️🙂
Shahnaz Hussain
Epic is the right word! Congratulations on bringing such a challenging book to the stage. Well done everyone backstage, on stage and front of house👏. Sorry I couldn't stop after the show, I had to get up early for an all day rehearsal and there were so many already congratulating you all I couldn't have got near anyway! Enjoy your last few shows!
Sue Whyte
Came to see this amazing shoe tonight. The whole cast and choir were amazing. Standing ovation all around. Well deserved
Melanie White
You did a cracking job Sally Luff, your words are absolutely right, keep it moving and developing as it deserves a wider audience. Absolutely well done to you for all your hard work 💕💕
Debra Danu Mathews
It was absolutely amazing!! Congratulations!! 🥰🥳
Nicky Prince
Sally the show was brilliant and very thought provoking. It was such a professional production and wonderfully acted. Thanks to all the cast and crew for a great evening. 💕
Paul Moss
It was fang - tastic! Loved it and the set was incredible, as were the actors and choir! Can’t wait to come and support whatever is next x
Amy Sharpe
Thank you Sally for inviting me to take part, I thoroughly enjoyed working with you and the fab cast, the amazing choir and brilliant production team.
Phil Underwood
Just fabulous to be involved 🧛
Yvonne Patel
Congratulations to Carabosse Theatre Company for the AMAZING Dracula performance! You have deserved a well-earned REST now!
Maja Dunn
I have just had the most incredible time being part of this wonderful play. We all had professional voice coaching (my Romanian accent is still questionable) a professional dance teacher (apologies to Phil for toe squashing) and two amazing hair and makeup professionals who restored my eyebrows and exposed my forehead which hasn't been seen for many years. I am in awe of the talent in Carabosse and am truly blessed to have been part of this fabulous production. Sally Luff had a vision and brought it to the stage in the most incredible way and I thank her for giving me the opportunity to be part of it 💖
Judith Brooker
Absolutely magical. I have been to theatre productions in London , Paris & Rome and this performance was as professional as any of those. Well done all of you ❤️💕❤️💕
Christine Robinson Hughes
It was fantastic really enjoyed coming last night you all were so amazing.
Susan Webb
Well ladies we did it Milton Keynes Women's Choir ....just thinking about the past week huge thanks to Nicky for believing in us and all at Carabosse for being so welcoming and supportive. Thanks to Sally Luff for your vision and support.
Jessica Gregson
It was a privilege to see it, and amazing cast and production.
Mark Denman ( singer : songwriter of Dracula theme song )
What a thoroughly amazing production! Congratulations to every single one of you
You were all Incredible! Creep and Feeling Good are two of my most favourite songs and you made me love them even more! You performed the chorus’ role flawlessly, perfectly sinister! I applaud you all x
Shelly Wyn-de-Bank
What a great experience! Thankyou very much Sally Luff and Nicky for the opportunity. Loved it! Xxx
Denise Underwood
Been brilliant experience one didn’t think l wouldn’t ever have opportunity to do
Angela Eldred
Loved the whole experience. Especially last night. All the nerves were gone and it was simply pure empowerment and enjoyment and family.
sally Anne Watts
You brought a whole other dimension to the show. My spine has only just stopped tingling.
Rod Ehre
Carabosse - What an Absolutely amazing Theatre group you are, and so much more. You should all feel immense proud in the production, it truly was EPIC!
I so loved the Opening night, you were just magical!
We’ll dome Sally for bringing your dream ‘to life’! You truly are 1 in a million & so proud of what you’ve achieved. Xx
MK Women’s Choir - you Rock!
Xx🧛🏻♥️
Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work Back Stage, loved every moment &
Want more !! Long Live the 🧛🏻 xx
Tina Milner
Absolutely amazing, Denise said you were in a play. Looks great fun 😃 well done xxx
Josephine Pressnell
We were there on Friday. Enjoyed it very much. I particularly liked your dancing Leonora Jackson!
Julian Pentz
Great photos and makeup and costumes look awesome.
Sue Mahoney
It was absolutely fantastic really enjoyed it
Sonya Gee
What an awesome show
How lucky is Mk to have Dracula - a new adaption by Carabosse Theatre Company
Bravo 🙌 🎭
Hannah Thomas