Dracula: The Bloody Truth at Patrick Centre - review
On Tuesday evening, the Patrick Centre at Birmingham Hippodrome was transformed into the Transylvanian mountains and the charming seaside town of Whitby for a comedic retelling of Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
Presented by Exeter based physical comedy troupe Le Navet Bete, the hilarious story was told by just four actors playing both a variety of characters including the show’s namesake and Abraham Van Helsing as well as changing the set and various props. The story took the form of Van Helsing delivering a factual theatre production of the true story of Dracula with the help of three amateur actors.
In a similar vein to ‘The Play That Goes Wrong’ it’s safe to say that the performance doesn’t go to plan, with slapstick and silly humour in abundance. As a family friendly show there was a sense of expectation of what the punch line would be for the most part, however it’s delivered with such comedic timing that it’s arguably one of the funniest plays the audience had seen in a long time.
Upon entrance to the theatre fans were greeted with a Victorian theatre style set, however throughout the evening this transforms from the Transylvanian mountains to Whitby through effective props, lighting and costume. The intimacy of the sold out theatre allows for audience interaction, however the skill within the show was clearly the four actors on stage. With howls and cackles of laughter from the audience all the way throughout the show, it was more than clear why Le Navet Bete have developed a reputation as one of the most exciting comedy troupes in the country.
If you have the chance to catch this production as it tours around the country then it couldn’t come anymore highly recommended for something to sink your teeth into.
