Columbia Welcomes Halloween with “Dracula: Ballet with a Bite”
This past weekend, the charming city of Columbia came alive with the sounds of eerie music and the haunting beauty of dance as the South Carolina Ballet presented their much-anticipated production, “Dracula: Ballet with a Bite.” Held at the Koger Center for the Arts on October 25, 2024, this theatrical experience offered a delightful blend of graceful choreography and a spine-tingling story that made it perfect for the Halloween season.
A Chilling Tale Reimagined
What do you think of when the spooky season rolls around? Ghosts darting in the night? Children dressed as superheroes gathering candy? Or perhaps a more sinister creature: the vampire? With a rich history of captivating audiences since its debut in 1991, this production, under the skilled direction of William Starrett, pulls you right into the world of Bram Stoker’s classic horror.
The adaptation has been described as an amalgamation of mesmerizing choreography and an evolving score, with every performance promising something new. Starrett believes in keeping the show “fresh and current,” constantly updating the sets, music, lighting, and costumes to ensure returning audience members enjoy a new experience each time.
The Thrill of the Performance
During the performance, the audience followed the journey of the Harker family as they ventured through a quaint Transylvanian town and encountered the notorious Count Dracula and his eerie wives. The chilling escape sequences left audiences on the edge of their seats, with the stunning dancers bringing an air of vibrancy and suspense to the stage. It’s not just a ballet—it’s an experience that tugs at the heart and sends shivers down the spine, especially with its PG-13 rating.
A Ballet That Spans the State
Founded in 1961 as the Columbia City Ballet, the company rebranded in 2023 to represent a broader statewide identity. This name change allows audiences across South Carolina to take pride in their local ballet company while acknowledging Columbia as its heart and capital. The rebranding aims to eliminate confusion with other cities sharing the name, allowing them to embrace the artistry brought to their own towns.
Starrett shared the excitement from the audience in various cities, noting how “it gives them pride” to know their state ballet is visiting. From Columbia to Hartsville, the company is dedicated to delivering captivating performances, ensuring that every city feels part of the artistic journey.
What’s Next for SC Ballet?
For those who missed the chilling ballet, there is no need to fret! The South Carolina Ballet has a lineup of productions that are sure to thrill throughout the holiday season and into the new year. Get ready for the classics like “The Nutcracker”, set to grace the stage at the Koger Center on December 14, 15, 21, and 22. Following that, they will enchant audiences with “Romeo and Juliet” on February 8 and bring the poignant “Giselle” to life on March 22.
As Columbia embraces the Halloween spirit with art and culture, it’s clear that the thrill of performance continues to unite and excite audiences across the state. Mark your calendars—there’s plenty more magic on the horizon!
