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Draper Journal

There’s Mischief Brewing At Draper Historic Theatre In “Dracula: Obsessed and Hating It”

Oct 23, 2014 09:54AM ● By Kim Shemwell

Frankie proves to be a bit of a “Fixer Upper” in “Dracula: Obsessed and Hating It,” at Draper Historic Theatre this month. Photo courtesy of Draper Historic Theatre

If you’re looking for a fun-filled haunt to take your little monsters to this month, check out the second annual stage production of “Dracula: Obsessed and Hating It,” playing Oct. 18, 20, 25, 27 and 30 at the Draper Historic Theatre, 12366 South 900 East. Featuring classic monsters, silly story lines and even a costume contest at intermission, this family-friendly and interactive musical comedy will provide entertainment for the whole family.

Written by Draper Historic Theatre’s founder Vanessa Nelson, along with her granddaughter Joy Bowe and Dana Fisher, this year’s  revamped version of the production features favorite monsters such as Dracula, Frankenstein and the Wolfman who have moved to Draper, only to realize they don’t fit in because of their obsessive and villainous ways. Dr. Jekyll decides to open a rehab clinic for the monsters, trying his best to cure them as the evil Grinch continuously thwarts his efforts.

“This is a great show for all ages,” said Nelson, who also stars as a ventriloquist with five different puppets in the production. “We encourage guests to join us dressed in costume for our intermission filled with fun and prizes.”

Kids will enjoy the interactive surprises throughout the show as well as appearances by popular characters, such as

“Despicable Me” Minions thought to be Twinkies by the confused Wolfman and Harry Plotter who has a fear of light (hypervisaphobia). Co-writer and theater neighbor Dana Fisher even casts her small horse in the production, showcasing his math problem solving skills.

Main characters Mr. & Mrs. Dracula are played by Joy Bowe (Nelson’s granddaughter) and her husband who first met on the Dracula set last year.

“The theatre has sparked many local romances over the years—eight that I know of who are still together,” Nelson said. “DHT has inspired many people and, in several instances, changed very shy people into vibrant personalities on stage.”

Nelson and her husband Charles purchased the theatre in 1988 and added theatrical lighting, sound and an expanded stage to allow for live shows. Before that, the theatre had been a movie house. Nelson, now nearly 80, has been actively involved with the theater ever since, creating opportunities for Draper community members to develop and share their theatrical talents. For tickets visit www.drapertheatre.org.