Dracula (Czech musical)

Dracula is a Czech musical written by Karel Svoboda (music), Zdeněk Borovec (lyrics), and Richard Hes (book). It is loosely based on Bram Stoker's novel Dracula. It premiered on October 13, 1995, at the Prague Congress Centre and became a major success, quickly becoming one of the most popular and longest-running musicals in Czech history.

The musical tells the story of Dracula, his origins as a warrior, his loss of faith and pact with darkness, and his centuries-long struggle with love, death, and immortality. It also features the characters of Lorraine, Adriana, and Nick, representing different aspects of Dracula's desires and past. The plot incorporates elements of romance, horror, and historical drama.

Dracula is known for its elaborate staging, costumes, and special effects. The music, composed by Karel Svoboda, is a blend of pop, rock, and classical influences, contributing significantly to the musical's widespread appeal. Several cast albums have been released, featuring various performers who have played the lead roles.

The musical has seen numerous revivals and productions, both in the Czech Republic and internationally. It has been translated into several languages, including Slovak, German, and Russian. Different productions have often featured variations in staging, choreography, and even slight alterations to the script and score, while retaining the core story and musical themes. The lasting popularity of Dracula highlights its significance in the landscape of Czech musical theatre.