DRACULA at Ailey Citigroup Theater

DRACULA in NYC For Limited Time Only

Epic drama on the legend of Dracula. Based on the true story.

The year is 1462, and many of the separate kingdoms in the Balkans have fallen to the invading Ottomans, leaving Walachia standing alone and defiant under the command of Vlad III, Dracula. Against this turbulent backdrop lives our hero, forced to choose between the country of his birth and the people of his upbringing. Directed, Choreographed and Written by Chiara Ajkun, performed by the Ajkun Ballet Company.

After author Bram Stoker borrowed the name Dracula for his famous horror novel, and Prince Vladimir Dracul III (1431-1476) was labeled a vampire in popular culture for centuries to come. Inspired by historic events and legends surrounding Dracula, Chiara Ajkun brings some light on the true story highlighting Dracula attempts to save the principality on the lower Danube River that later formed the state of Romania. The ballet opens with memories of Devirme captivity and Dracula facing Sultan Mehmet The Conqueror to halt the conquest of the Balkans. Dracula’s dreams are challenged by divided loyalties, ominous signs, and the dawn of modern’s day espionage.

Dracula is part of The Originals, Chiara Ajkun ‘s collection of new ballets and the signature repertory of the Ajkun Ballet Theatre. Steeped in influences by artists of the 20th century, Chiara’s choreography has evolved from the tradition into one act contemporary ballets with at centerstage dance and emotions. Her spectacular, dynamic, elegant and expressive ballets are inspired to historical facts and legends and set to exquisite music selections and minimalist décor. See also www.ajkunbt.org/original-art

Chiara Ajkun is an Italian American choreographer, formerly a principal ballet dancer, and the artistic director of the Ajkun Ballet Theatre. Chiara has created original choreography for preeminent companies in 27 countries in Australia, Europe, North and South America and for movies produced by ABC, BBC, FOX, RAI national televisions.