New World School of the Arts inaugurates its theatre season with Kate Hamill’s innovative adaptation of Dracula, described as a “Feminist Revenge Fantasy.” Directed by James Samuel Randolph, a member of the NWSA theatre faculty, the high school acting and musical theatre students delve into themes of predation, reinterpreting the classic narrative into a thought-provoking, darkly comedic drama. Hamill’s distinctive style and postmodern humor challenge the traditional Victorian vampire tale, effectively critiquing toxic masculinity.
Randolph emphasizes the significance of this production, noting that New World School of the Arts’ 40th anniversary season calls for a special and unique opening performance. He points out that this new version of Dracula addresses enduring issues such as women’s rights, power dynamics, trafficking, and crime, which are relevant to contemporary society. The play also incorporates a mystical element, adding to its intrigue. “I think it has been, hopefully, a generally great experience for the cast. It’s about having fun while also learning something they can use professionally.”
“Marvelous… A timely spin on Stoker for the #MeToo era… crisply wrought… Here as in her previous plays, Ms. Hamill’s explicitly feminist perspective helps to put a fresh, theatrically potent spin on the novel.” – The Wall Street Journal
Luna Granados-Salazar, portraying “Lucy,” expresses her belief that a Gothic retelling offers an excellent opportunity for classical training infused with a unique perspective. Similarly, Jahmari Pierre, who takes on the role of “Seward,” remarks on his unfamiliarity with the horror genre, highlighting that applying classroom knowledge to such intense scenarios presents a novel experience for him.
In honor of NWSA’s 40th anniversary, the inaugural performance on Friday, October 9th, will be preceded by a pre-show reception at 6 PM at the New World Gallery (25 NE 2 Street, Lobby, Miami). During the performance’s curtain speech, former faculty member David Kwiat will be recognized for his dedicated service to New World School of the Arts and the broader arts community in South Florida. David will be present at the pre-show reception to interact with attendees and extend a warm welcome to alumni, students, and parents of the New World School of the Arts.
David Kwiat is an award-winning Equity actor and theater professional based in South Florida, widely recognized for his extensive work with regional theater companies like GableStage, Zoetic Stage, and Palm Beach Dramaworks. He joined the acting faculty of New World School of the Arts in 1989 and taught generations of theatre students—including Academy Award winner Tarell Alvin McCraney, Katie Finneran, Michael Aronov and Andréa Burns, to name a few—before retiring in 2018. During his tenure, he was also honored as an Endowed Teaching Chair recipient.
Content Advisory: This production contains theatrical haze, flashing lights, and mature themes and adult language, include depictions of power, abuse, and toxic relationships, simulated violence and blood/gore, loud sound effects, and sudden noises. Ages 12 and up.
Acting and musical theatre students at NWSA hone their craft through acting technique, movement, and speech classes, focusing on fundamentals of physical and emotional preparation. With performance at its core, training is based on the classical texts and the principles of drama as well as practical incursions into the contemporary and experimental edges of theatre. Consequently, alumni are found performing onstage nationally and internationally and their talent and vision are recognized and highly regarded in the industry. For information about the theatre program at New World School of the Arts please call 305-237-3541.
A Florida center of excellence in the visual and performing arts, New World School of the Arts is an educational partnership of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Miami Dade College, and University of Florida. NWSA provides a comprehensive program of artistic, creative, and academic development through a curriculum that reflects our community and the rich multicultural state of Florida. Through our partners NWSA confers the high school diploma, Associate of Arts degree, and Bachelor of Fine Arts and Bachelor of Music college degrees in programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Dance, Music, Theatre and Art & Design. NWSA’s rigorous eight-year curriculum and conservatory-style teaching has empowered students in our community and our nation to become leaders in the arts for more three decades.
Information about New World School of the Arts at 305-237-3135 or nwsa.mdc.edu.
DRACULA. A FEMINIST REVENGE FANTASY, REALLY
October 9, 16; 7:30 PM
October 10, 17; 2 PM & 7:30 PM
Louise O. Gerrits Theater
25 NE 2 Street, 8th Floor, Miami
General admission $12. Student and seniors $5