Story perspectives

Chicago's Dracula: Hilarious Twist on Gender Norms

2/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors premiered in Chicago, directed by Matthew Masino.
The 90-minute farce features a gender-bending twist with Conner Paulson as Dracula and Valerie Martire as Lucy Westfeldt.
The production emphasizes humor and fast pacing, with actors playing multiple roles for comedic effect.
It challenges Victorian gender norms by portraying women as intelligent and capable.
The show runs through February 22 at the Greenhouse Theatre Center.

History

Historical Context

The 1920s marked a transformative era in American theater, highlighted by the 1927 premiere of "Show Boat," which addressed complex themes and showcased African American struggles. This period, characterized by the rise of jazz and musical comedies, reflected broader societal changes and challenged traditional gender norms, paving the way for modern productions that continue to explore these themes.

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Story summary

Dracula: A Comedy of Terrors premiered in Chicago, directed by Matthew Masino.
The 90-minute farce features a gender-bending twist with Conner Paulson as Dracula and Valerie Martire as Lucy Westfeldt.
The production emphasizes humor and fast pacing, with actors playing multiple roles for comedic effect.
It challenges Victorian gender norms by portraying women as intelligent and capable.
The show runs through February 22 at the Greenhouse Theatre Center.

1 / 2