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Atlantic City Ballet will make its debut at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City with a one-night performance of “Dracula” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 29, in Sound Waves, according to New Jersey Stage.
The show is open to audiences ages 5 and older and kicks off Halloween weekend. Guests are invited to dress up and enter a costume contest, with prizes awarded at the show.
Atlantic City Ballet’s signature Halloween production
Artistic Director Phyllis Papa created “Dracula” as an original ballet based on Bram Stoker’s novel. According to the company’s website, the story follows Jonathan Harker, a young lawyer captured and imprisoned by Count Dracula.
Inspired by a photograph of Harker’s fiancée, Mina, Dracula travels to London and drains the life from her best friend, Lucy Westenra. Dr. Van Helsing then leads a crusade to save Mina and rid the world of the vampire.
The ballet features lavish costumes, theatrical sets and a gripping score. The company calls it one of the biggest hits in its 40-year history and a Halloween tradition.
“Ballet has a wild side, and ‘Dracula’ really brings it out,” Papa said, calling the production beautiful and full of dramatic tension. She thanked Hard Rock Casino and its president, George Goldhoff, for their support, which she said helps the company continue the Atlantic City ballet tradition it began more than 40 years ago.
Hard Rock Casino Atlantic City backs the local arts scene
Goldhoff said the performance aligns with Hard Rock’s commitment to offering guests unique entertainment experiences. He said the Atlantic City casino and resort is proud to host the ballet and support the arts that give the community its character.
Sound Waves is at 1000 Boardwalk in Atlantic City.
More than 40 years of dance
Phyllis Papa founded Atlantic City Ballet in 1982. The nonprofit company, based at Boardwalk Hall, features professional dancers from around the world and presents both classical ballets and original works. It also runs educational programs and community outreach.
The company is supported by charitable donations, grants and sponsorships. Funding also comes in part from the Atlantic County Office of Cultural & Heritage Affairs, a partner of the New Jersey State Council on the Arts.
Tickets, showtime and venue details
Tickets for the Oct. 29 performance are $50, plus applicable fees, and are available through Ticketmaster. The company’s calendar also lists the date, and its home page shows its upcoming fall and winter performances, including “The Nutcracker” in December.
