PLAYBILLDER Spotlight: In This Feminist Dracula, An All-Female Cast Shines Like Stars

Welcome to PLAYBILLDER Spotlight, where Playbill highlights shows from educational institutions or regional theatres and special events around the country (who have used Playbill's program-building service). By welcoming these PLAYBILLDERs center stage, we hope to give our readers a more in-depth look at theatre programs that are fostering the love of the performing arts in the next generation and the way theatre lovers are bringing Playbill along for life's big moments.

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This week's Spotlight is Holy Names Academy of Seattle and their performance of DRACULA: A Feminist Revenge Fantasy, Really. The play, written by Kate Hamill and loosely based on Bram Stoker's Dracula, makes Mina Harker the main character and Van Helsing into a woman, driving a stake through toxic masculinity.

Director of Theatre and Film Sarah Aanderud Wahlen shared with Playbill how her students are learning to express themselves through theatre.

Tell us a little about yourself. How many years have you been teaching?
Sarah Aanderud Wahlen: I have been the Director of Theatre & Film at Holy Names Academy for 10-and-a-half years, during which time we have produced 21 shows. 

What is your proudest moment as an educator?
My proudest moment as a director and educator is seeing my students shine on stage, experiencing the sheer joy that comes from all of the hard work coming together to make magic. 

What shows are your kids obsessed with right now?
My students are currently obsessed with Suffs, Heathers, Anastasia, Waitress, and The Outsiders. 

How does your school’s performing arts programs impact your community?
I think the most important way that the performing arts can impact community is by creating an inclusive, welcoming environment. The performing arts are a safe place where students can find their people, their own amazing gifts, and learn how to express themselves in the most beautiful ways. 

Tell us a little bit about the production. What made you pick the show? How do you choose shows for your students?
I teach at an all-girls high school so I like to make selections that have strong female roles. I also like to pick projects with values like female empowerment and social justice. 

What are the kids loving about the show?
The students love the way the script challenges them and allows them to grow in their skills. Our creative team has also appreciated being able to really utilize their gifts in implementing new lighting, sound, costuming, and visual art techniques. 

What message do you have for your students as they take the stage?
I always have a similar message for my students as they take the stage: "Go out there and leave it all on the stage. You have done the work, now shine like the stars you are!"

How has PLAYBILLDER impacted your performing arts program as a resource?
PLAYBILLDER allows us to really elevate the professionalism of our show, as well as make the audience experience as authentic as possible. It is a beautiful way to showcase all of the people who make the show come to life and also provides a wonderful keepsake for the cast and crew.

To design Broadway-quality programs for your next show or special event, head to PLAYBILLDER.com. Who knows, you might just be featured in our next PLAYBILLDER Spotlight! And if you are looking for a beautiful way to display your Playbills, click here to purchase Playbill frames.