19 October, 2025
pine-plains-unveils-unique-twist-on-dracula-this-friday

PINE PLAINS — The annual production of “Dracula,” presented by Theatre on the Road, is set to captivate audiences at the Stissing Center for Arts & Culture on October 17, 2025, at 19:00. This year’s rendition introduces innovative character transformations and a fresh perspective on the classic tale.

In a notable departure from tradition, the character of Van Helsing, typically a male figure, is reimagined as a female lead played by actress and director Michelle Kafel-Cintron. Additionally, the role of Renfield, originally conceived as male, will now be portrayed by Marisa Gorsline as Dracula’s female liege. While the narrative does not delve into romance, Gorsline’s interpretation explores a complex, codependent dynamic between the characters.

Kafel-Cintron expressed her enthusiasm about the casting choices, stating, “We originally had the idea of Van Helsing as a female, as Frank Marquette and I both are very open to the idea of pushing boundaries where women can take on these strong, lead roles.” She emphasized the importance of showcasing female strength in narratives that traditionally focus on male protagonists. Her co-founder, Frank Marquette, supports this vision, highlighting the theater’s commitment to innovative storytelling.

Musical Enhancements and Thematic Depth

This year’s performance will also feature a curated selection of music, enhancing the atmosphere of the production. While the show is not a musical, the incorporation of classical compositions and pieces from the 1920s aims to enrich specific scenes and elevate the overall experience. Kafel-Cintron clarified, “We found a few places where music could be incorporated to make the setting even more exciting and entertaining; after all, theater is supposed to delight, even if the story is dark.”

Themes woven throughout the performance include the perennial battle of good versus evil, the dismantling of unchecked power, and the necessity of unity in overcoming obstacles that threaten the common good. These elements promise to resonate with audiences, offering a thought-provoking experience amidst the chilling tale.

Tickets for “Dracula” can be purchased at thestissingcenter.org/events-list/dracula-2025. The Stissing Center for Arts & Culture is located at 2950 Church St., Pine Plains. As anticipation builds for this unique interpretation of a literary classic, the theater community looks forward to engaging an audience eager for innovative storytelling.