Dracula Ballet Debuts in The Woodlands

**The Woodlands Dance Company Unveils Hauntingly Romantic “Dracula: A Beautiful Watch Beginning & End”**

THE WOODLANDS, TX – The Woodlands Dance Company is set to captivate audiences with its highly anticipated original ballet production, “Dracula: A Beautiful Watch Beginning & End,” premiering early next month at the Nancy Bock Center for Performing Arts. This fresh interpretation of Bram Stoker’s gothic classic promises a journey beyond conventional horror, delving into the profound and tragic romanticism of the iconic vampire.

Under the visionary direction and choreography of Artistic Director Elizabeth King, the production aims to explore Dracula’s enduring sorrow and the cyclical nature of his existence. “We wanted to peel back the layers of horror to reveal the deeply human, albeit monstrous, grief and longing that drives Dracula,” states King. “Our title, ‘A Beautiful Watch Beginning & End,’ speaks to the timeless allure of his story, seen through a lens of profound empathy, inviting audiences to witness the beauty and tragedy inherent in his eternal struggle.”

The ballet will feature an original score, specially commissioned and composed by The Woodlands Dance Company’s acclaimed composer-in-residence, Jesse Clark. Clark’s music is designed to be an integral part of the storytelling, weaving themes of loss, forbidden love, and eternal damnation into a rich sonic tapestry. “Composing an original score for Dracula allowed me to create a unique soundscape that mirrors the ballet’s emotional depth,” Clark explains. “Instead of relying on existing tropes, I aimed to craft music that truly underscores the narrative and the complex emotions of each character.”

Further enhancing the immersive experience are the innovative set and lighting designs by Bryan Nortin, promising to transport audiences into Dracula’s haunting world. The cast itself is a dynamic blend of professional dancers alongside dedicated pre-professional students from the company, a testament to The Woodlands Dance Company’s commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering artistic excellence. This blend offers invaluable mentorship opportunities for younger dancers while ensuring a performance of exceptional caliber.

Performances are scheduled for three opportunities at the Nancy Bock Center for Performing Arts, located at 3800 S. Panther Creek Drive in The Woodlands, TX. The curtains will rise on Friday, November 3rd, for an evening show at 7:00 PM. On Saturday, November 4th, audiences can choose between a matinee performance at 2:00 PM or another evening show at 7:00 PM.

The Woodlands Dance Company, a pillar of the local arts community, is renowned for its commitment to bringing high-quality, thought-provoking dance to Montgomery County. The Nancy Bock Center, a premier venue in the area, provides an ideal setting for this ambitious production, known for its excellent acoustics and intimate atmosphere.

Tickets are currently available for purchase online at woodlandsdance.com. Pre-sale prices are $25 for children and seniors, and $30 for adults. For those planning to purchase at the door, tickets will be $30 for children and seniors, and $35 for adults. Community members are encouraged to secure their tickets in advance for this captivating and unique artistic event.