Appalachian Gothic Horror Celebrates a Decade with Returning Cast
Chad Hembree’s “Dracula: The New World” returns this November for its 10th anniversary production—a milestone for an Appalachian reimagining of the classic vampire legend that has become a beloved tradition at The Spotlight Playhouse.
Written originally to provide a no-fee production for the theater when it was housed at Churchill’s, the show has evolved into an annual event that draws audiences seeking something beyond typical Halloween entertainment. This year’s production features several actors reprising roles they’ve inhabited for years, bringing depth and continuity to this regional horror story that has become a cornerstone of Berea’s theatrical calendar.
A Decade of Dedication
At the heart of the production’s longevity is Darrell Harrison, who helped develop the title role and has played Dracula throughout the show’s history. Harrison’s long-term commitment to the character has allowed the role to evolve and deepen, creating a portrayal that reflects both the timeless nature of the vampire legend and the specific atmosphere of Appalachian gothic horror.
Joining Harrison are other returning cast members who have become integral to the production’s identity. Edwin Tait reprises his role as Reverend Wesley, and Kyrsten Daugherty returns as Lilith—a character added in the fifth year that has become essential to the story’s Appalachian framework.
This continuity of cast members creates something rare in community theater: a production that grows richer with each iteration, as actors bring years of experience and understanding to their roles.
From Churchill’s to The Spotlight Playhouse
The production’s journey mirrors the growth of The Spotlight Playhouse itself. What started as a no-fee show designed to support the theater company has become an annual tradition that audiences anticipate. The show has evolved from its Churchill’s origins to fill the stages of the current 13,000-square-foot Spotlight Playhouse facility.
Written and directed by Hembree, “Dracula: The New World” reimagines Bram Stoker’s immortal tale through a distinctly regional lens, trading Transylvanian castles for the eerie beauty of Appalachian hills. The production transforms the vampire legend into something that feels both ancient and local, where European gothic horror meets the folklore and mystery of the mountains.
An Immersive Appalachian Experience
What sets this production apart is its commitment to creating an authentic Appalachian atmosphere. The 10th anniversary production features an all-new background soundtrack filled with the haunting sounds of Appalachia—creaking forests, dark mountain roads, and the atmospheric music that defines the region. This immersive soundscape transforms the theater into a world where ancient evils clash with mountain traditions.
The story unfolds in a setting familiar to anyone who has driven the winding roads of rural Kentucky at night or felt the weight of the mountains’ history. By grounding Dracula’s tale in Appalachian culture, Hembree has created something more than an adaptation—he’s crafted a regional horror story that resonates with local audiences while maintaining the spine-tingling suspense of the original.
Three Nights Only
“Dracula: The New World” runs for just three performances—Friday, November 7th; Saturday, November 8th; and Sunday, November 9th—all beginning at 8:00 PM at The Spotlight Playhouse. The limited run adds to the event’s appeal, making it a special occasion rather than a routine production.
For those seeking an alternative to typical Halloween entertainment, this production offers something more substantial: a thoughtfully crafted piece of regional theater that has been refined over a decade. It’s an opportunity to experience how classic horror can be transformed when filtered through the lens of Appalachian storytelling—and to witness actors who have dedicated years to bringing this vision to life.
Dracula: The New World – 10th Anniversary Production🎭 Presented by: The Bluegrass Players✍️ Written & Directed by: Chad Hembree📅 Dates: November 7, 8, 9, 2025🕗 Show Time: 8:00 PM📍 Venue: The Spotlight Playhouse, 214 Richmond Road North, Berea🎟️ Tickets: See TicketSource for current pricing⚠️ Parental Advisory: Intended for mature audiences
Returning Cast: 🧛 Darrell Harrison as Count Dracula⛪ Edwin Tait as Reverend Wesley🌙 Kyrsten Daugherty as Lilith
More Info: thespotlightplayhouse.com
This production contains mature themes and is recommended for adult audiences.