Shakespeare society takes on Bram Stoker's Dracula (From Richmond and Twickenham Times)

Richmond Shakespeare Society takes on Bram Stoker's Dracula

10:09am Thursday 6th December 2012 in News By Amy Dyduch

Bram Stoker’s 19th century classic novel Dracula has been transformed into a fascinating stage production by the Richmond Shakespeare Society.

John Riley, has been working with the society for 20 years, and has now tried his hand at directing.

He says: “This is the second one I have directed. It is a different type of challenge – I enjoy it more than acting. I find it more creative and it gives you a different perspective.”

Riley says the technical team have been working hard to ensure the audience is submerged into Stoker’s story.

He says: “The rehearsals are going really well. We’ve got lots of sound and lighting effects so it is going to be as eerie as we can make it and very atmospheric and gothic.”

Riley has honoured Stoker’s original work, which tells the story of Dracula’s attempt to relocate from Transylvania to England, and the battle he faces with a group of people led by Professor Abraham Van Helsing.

Riley says: “It is a classic gothic horror story. I keep very close to Bram Stoker’s original story.”

Dracula; Mary Wallace Theatre, Embankment, Twickenham; December 8 to 15; £10-£12; 020 8744 0547.