Dracula by Brandywine Ballet – A Preview Interview

Dracula by Brandywine Ballet is ready to sink it’s teeth into West Chester! We’re so excited for this performance featuring love, heartbreak, and a reunion of two lovers that will excite, thrill, and shock audiences. We interviewed the team at the Brandywine Ballet about what we can expect.

Performances are Friday, October 20 (at 10am), Saturday, October 21 (at 7pm), and Sunday, October 22 (at 2pm). Get your tickets now!

What should attendees be excited for regarding the production of Dracula at the Brandywine Ballet?

Dracula is a spectacular ballet because it is unlike most fairytale, full-length stories. It is dark and even twisted at times, filled with epic battle scenes, blood and death, romance and passion. The choreography is timeless and well rounded, including large ensemble sections, riveting pas de trios, and passionate pas de deux. Audience members may be shocked and surprised at many of the scenes, but as the development of the characters and their relationships unfold, attendees may find themselves falling in love alongside them.

What would you say to people new to ballet to encourage them to attend?

While we understand that some people may think the ballet is not for them, they for sure haven’t seen Dracula! It is the drama, the story, the music, the choreography, and the interpretation of the dancers that will excite and draw in audiences. It is a wonderful introduction to the world of ballet with a captivating story that will open up the eyes of new audience members to the depth of the world of dance.

Why is it important to support the arts in the community?

West Chester is a vibrant community that has a thriving arts scene, and this is one attribute that sets West Chester apart. Brandywine Ballet is an important part of that culture, as our organization has been here for nearly 40 years. We love our hometown, and we love bringing professional ballet productions to our community. The support of the community is integral to the health and sustainability of arts organizations, and through supporting the arts your life will be enriched as you view the world from a new angle.

What do you think is special about the Brandywine Ballet?

Brandywine Ballet produces some of the largest, professional productions in the region, and we give serious students the chance to perform alongside professional dancers in our fully staged performances. Part of our mission is to inspire, educate, and engage both dancers and audiences. We believe that our high level of training and professionalism carries our reputation as the region’s premier 501(c)(3) non-profit, ballet organization.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Here is a statement from lead dancer, Jaime L. Louis, on dancing one of the leading female roles of Elisabeta/Mina:

I have been a part of Nancy Page’s Dracula since its inception in 2004, and have performed the ballet on at least five separate occasions. This ballet will forever hold a special place in my heart, because it gives you the opportunity to explore a range of emotions and different characters, even while performing the same role. I have had the unique opportunity of performing both leading female roles of Lucy and Mina, and both of these characters embark on emotional rollercoasters throughout the ballet. If you are seeking some entertainment that dwells on the dark side, yet is still full of passion, love, and longing, then I urge you to take some time this weekend to experience the arts in a new way – broaden your horizons and come see Brandywine Ballet’s Dracula!

We can’t wait to experience this unique take on a classic! Get tickets now and don’t miss out on the Brandywine Ballet production of Dracula. Visit the website to order tickets today.