Improv Playhouse presents Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” as a staged radio play

Gurnee’s Daniel Plumhoff will play Count Dracula in the Improv Playhouse’s radio play production of “Dracula.”
Courtesy of Improv Playhouse

Prepare for a thrilling theatrical experience this October as Improv Playhouse presents Dracula, Bram Stoker’s iconic novel brought to life as a staged radio play based on the original 1938 screenplay by Orson Welles. Performances will be Friday and Saturday, Oct. 25 and 26, at the Improv Playhouse Theater, 735 N. Milwaukee, Libertyville.

Directed by Improv Playhouse founder David Brian Stuart, this production pays homage to the golden age of radio. Welles’ little-known hour-long radio adaptation of “Dracula” originally aired on July 11, 1938, just a few months before his infamous broadcast of “War of the Worlds.”

“This adaptation is by far the closest thing to the original novel,” Stuart said. “The radio play format allows audiences to fully immerse themselves in the tension and terror that Stoker created in his story, while maintaining the suspenseful atmosphere that Welles masterfully brought to life.”

The production features a cast of local talent. Daniel Plumhoff from Gurnee takes on the role of the sinister Count Dracula, a dream role he has always wanted to take on.

“It has been a lifelong goal to portray Dracula. “There are so many layers to this character,” Plumhoff said. Joining him on stage is his father, Stephen Plumhoff, a veteran of Improv Playhouse productions who plays Dr. Seward plays, one of Dracula’s main antagonists.

“Playing Dracula’s enemy is especially fun since my son is Dracula! We always get along great; Now I have the chance to beat him on stage!” said Stephen with a smile.

Other standout cast members include Lake Zurich’s Mia Hirschel (AFTRA-SAG) as Mina, Vernon Hills’ Susan Kries as Lucy, Libertyville’s Egon Schein as Van Helsing, Palatine’s Dan Ness as Harker and Schaumburg’s Ted Rafferty as the captain of the ill-fated Demeter and Jerry Hirschel from Lake Zurich round out the ensemble.

Improv Playhouse’s radio players create the magic of live radio theater, where sound effects and voice acting conjure a vivid world into the audience’s imagination.

“The story is presented through diary entries and newspaper clippings, just like the original novel,” Stuart said. “With carefully orchestrated sound effects, we transport audiences back to a time when radio plays captivated listeners across the country…The genius of the Welles adaptation lies in its ability to keep audiences on the edge of their seats wondering what will happen next .” It is pure “theater of the mind”. And I promise there are no spoilers here; You’ll have to join us to see how it all unfolds.”

To match the festive Halloween spirit, the Improv Playhouse offers treats and surprises throughout the evening. Guests who show up at the door in costume will receive $2 off the ticket price.

“It will be a family-friendly evening of clean, spooky fun,” Stuart said. “Unlike Orson Welles, who both directed and played Dracula in the original production, I will remain at the helm and leave the spooky performances to our talented cast.”

Performances will take place on Friday, October 25th at 8 p.m.; 7:30 p.m. Saturday, October 26th

Tickets are $17.50 in advance for adults, $15 for ages 65 and older and $7.50 for students. and $20 for all adults and $10 for students at the door ($2 discount for those in costume).

This is a family friendly show. To purchase tickets, visit improvplayhouse.com or call (847) 968-4529.

The Improv Playhouse has been a cornerstone of Libertyville’s arts scene for over 25 years, providing quality performances, education and entertainment. Dedicated to the motto “Entertain, Educate, Uplift,” The Improv Playhouse continues to push the boundaries of creative theater and enrich the lives of its audiences through dynamic programming.