Cherry Hill East Theater is presenting the comedic thriller “Dracula” on Dec 11, 12, and 13 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec 14 at 2 p.m. as their fall play opens to students and families of all ages. Dracula follows two teenage girls who are the nieces of Sherlock Holmes and Watson, who help save London from Dracula. This fall show is different from what East has put on in the last few years, but equally as interesting due to its comedic and horror elements, as well as unique stage effects.
The show was selected by Mr. Peter Gambino, the director of the fall play. He is very excited to put on “Dracula.”
“I was an English teacher at East, and I loved teaching it. [Before that], this story was taught to me by Mr. Canzanse, and [when] I didn’t like reading, this [story] got me excited about literature,” said Gambino
Gambino adds that this show promotes student involvement, especially with the increased number of female roles and large featured ensemble. Anyone who wanted to audition for “Dracula” was welcome to participate in one way or another.
In preparing for an East Theater performance, there are many intricacies. The whole preparation process spans from October 4 to opening night on December 11.
“We take it scene by scene and work on the blocking of the scene and the emotions behind it and experiment with it, trying to add fun bits,” said Gambino.
The last few weeks before the play are more time-consuming for the actors, as they have rehearsals five to seven days a week, must be off book (meaning all lines are memorized), and endure longer rehearsals. Later, for Tech Week—the week leading up to opening night—the cast will run the entire show using lighting, sound, costumes, and all elements of the set used in the show.
East Theater’s Stage Manager, Isabella Laster (‘27), oversees the play and backstage organization. “I work with the directors to write down blocking, [and] I work with the cast to organize their schedules and communicate with costumes to make sure the cast members are getting fitted and make important announcements so everyone knows what is going on,” she said.
Overall, the theater department is hoping this play will get the support of many students and families in the community. The students in Theater put a great amount of time and preparation into Dracula, and they can’t wait to share it with their audience.
“East Theater is hoping that Dracula will attract the community to come see an interesting portrayal of a well-known character,” said Alexis Nowakowski (‘26), Thespian Society President.
As Gambino said, Dracula is “a delightful play,” and he hopes to see everyone there!
