Theatre on the Road’s annual production of “Dracula” is set to captivate audiences at the Stissing Center for Arts & Culture in Pine Plains, New York, on October 17, 2025, at 19:00. This year’s adaptation introduces fresh interpretations of classic characters, offering a unique perspective on the well-known tale.
In a notable departure from tradition, the character of Van Helsing, typically male, will be portrayed by actress and director Michelle Kafel-Cintron. The role of Renfield, traditionally cast as male, takes on a new dimension as actress Marisa Gorsline steps into the part, presenting a female version of Dracula’s devoted follower. While the production does not explore romance, Gorsline’s performance is expected to reveal a compelling codependent relationship between the two characters.
Kafel-Cintron expressed her enthusiasm for the reimagined roles, 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 in which men typically drive the community to work together and follow a plan.” The co-founder of Theatre on the Road, Marquette, collaborates with Kafel-Cintron, who currently serves as the producing artistic director of the company.
Innovative Elements Enhance the Experience
This year’s production also integrates music into the performance, adding depth to specific scenes without overshadowing the narrative. The selection features a blend of classical compositions and period pieces from the 1920s, enhancing the overall atmosphere. Kafel-Cintron clarified, “To be clear, this is not a musical or music-driven production, but 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.”
The themes explored in this adaptation include the struggle between good and evil, the dismantling of unchecked power, and the necessity of unity to confront challenges that threaten the common good.
Tickets for the production can be purchased at thestissingcenter.org/events-list/dracula-2025. The Stissing Center for Arts & Culture is located at 2950 Church St., Pine Plains. This innovative rendition of a classic story promises to engage audiences with its fresh perspectives and thought-provoking themes.