Dracula: Ballet With A Bite | Charleston • SC

South Carolina Ballet presents Dracula: Ballet With A Bite — a seductive gothic romance that will leave you breathless. This production brings Bram Stoker’s iconic tale to life through masterful choreography, striking staging, and a dynamic original score by Thomas Semanski that drives the tension and drama throughout the performance.

Thomas Semanski’s score blends haunting orchestral arrangements with driving rock-inspired rhythms, creating an atmosphere that is both contemporary and timeless. The music’s dark, hypnotic melodies heighten the sense of danger and allure, propelling the story forward with dramatic intensity. Its layered textures and unexpected harmonies mirror the seductive yet menacing nature of Dracula himself, adding depth and emotional weight to each scene.

The ballet follows the dark and captivating journey of Count Dracula as he emerges from the shadows and seduces his prey. Passion and fear intertwine as Dracula’s magnetic charm ensnares innocent souls, drawing them into a dangerous world of desire and darkness. The narrative builds to a powerful climax where love and loyalty are tested, and the line between good and evil is blurred.

Under the artistic direction of William Starrett, Dracula: Ballet With A Bite merges classical ballet with contemporary movement, creating a visually striking and emotionally charged performance. Intricate choreography, dramatic lighting, and opulent gothic-inspired costumes immerse audiences in the seductive world of Dracula’s castle. The haunting pas de deux between Dracula and his victims embodies the complex interplay of power and vulnerability, while ensemble pieces reflect the relentless pull of fate and temptation.

This production is a captivating exploration of love, fear, and immortality. Combining the elegance of ballet with the intensity of theater, Dracula: Ballet With A Bite offers a thrilling experience that lingers long after the curtain falls.