As hosts of the festival, the Nikola Vaptsarov Drama Theatre takes part in the main programme with its latest production, Dracula. For the first time in Bulgaria, Bram Stoker’s novel comes to life on stage under the direction of Stayko Murdzhev, while Koina Ruseva delivers a bold dual performance as both Dracula and Professor Van Helsing.
About the novel Dracula and its author
The novel Dracula OF Bram Stocker 1897) crystallizes the modern image of the vampire. Written as a epistolary thriller, (letters, diaries, newspaper clippings), it combines Gothic atmosphere with Victorian fears and scientific curiosity. The stage adaptation follows the spirit of the novel but “translates” the narratives and journals into condensed stage episodes, with high emotional pressure.
Murdzhev’s production reinterprets the myth beyond the Gothic legend, transforming it into a contemporary clash between light and darkness within the human soul. The performance explores the power of passionthe temptation to dominate and to surrender, and that fine linewhere love turns into obsession. On stage unfolds a mysterious and sensual universe — where every encounter is a duel, every kiss a danger, and every secret a potential weapon.
Koyna Ruseva leads the action as two powers in one body — the embodiment of both seduction and reason. Her transitions between Dracula’s predatory energy and Van Helsing’s analytical resolve transform the conflict into a profound inner duelwhich keeps the audience in constant suspense.
The cast also includes Nencho Kostov, Teodor Karakachanov, Nedilyana Pavlik, Mina Kaukkova, Katya Ivanova, Alexandra Zlateva, Alexander Kenderov, Matey Michev, Zhanet Keranova, Pepa Maneva, Lora Hristova, and Vanina Yordanova.
Tickets and Information
The official opening of the festival is on 1st November at 19.00 at "Georgi Izmirliev" sq. (free entrance) and you can watch "Dracula" at the second evening of the festival (2nd November) at 19.00 on the stage of "Nikola Vaptsaov" Drama TheatreThe performance will be with English subtitles..
Tickets can be purchased at the theatre’s box office and online at dtblagoevgrad.com.
The Balkan Theatre Festival brings together outstanding companies and directors from Bulgaria, Serbia, North Macedonia, and Romania to showcase the most powerful and innovative theatrical explorations of the region.
From November 1 to 7, Blagoevgrad will become a stage for cultural dialogue and theatrical experimentation, featuring one performance each evening and a series of special accompanying events.
The Balkan Theatre Festival is carried out with the financial support of Ministry of culture and National Culture Fund - "Festivals" Program 2024.
Спонсори: Търговска верига „Фантастико“, „Войнишки“ ООД, Хитачи Енерджи, СД „Лирик – Папалюгови и сие“, Еко Ферма Укеви, Фермерски магазин Rila Angus Farm, Villa Daros.
Partners: Park Bachinovo Hotel, Hotel Diva, Logodaj Winery, Staroto Photo, Hotel Alpha, BNT (Bulgarian National Television), ArtAkciq, BNR Blagoevgrad (Bulgarian National Radio).
