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Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Presents the Return of Michael Pink’s Thrilling Dracula on Halloween Weekend! The World-Renowned Dance Drama Will Leave Audiences Hungry for More

 

BT Artists: Colin McCaslin, Madeline Gradle, Grace Rookstool and Diane Yohe; Photographer: Justin Merriman

Back by popular demand, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre (PBT) will perform Michael Pink’s acclaimed Dracula ballet at the Benedum Center October 31-November 2, 2025. In this spell-binding production, the seductive Count Dracula makes his chilling return to the Benedum stage just in time for Halloween. Based on Bram Stoker’s classic Gothic horror story, this mesmerizing ballet features dramatic choreography, exquisite storytelling, opulent costumes, theatrical sets and a gripping original score by Philip Feeney.

“Dracula is a captivating ballet that appeals to all audiences,” said Artistic Director Adam W. McKinney. “It received a fantastic response when it premiered in Pittsburgh three years ago. We are excited to bring it back to Pittsburgh again this year. With its haunting special effects, romance and terror, Dracula is the perfect dark and sinister experience for Halloween weekend.” 

About Michael Pink’s Dracula

Dracula is based on Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel, detailing London businessman Jonathan Harker’s journey to Transylvania to meet Count Dracula, a mysterious figure who embodies both courtly elegance and menacing force. Dracula, a vampire surviving on the blood of the living, casts spells over Jonathan and his friends, who must sacrifice everything to stop him.  

Michael Pink created Dracula in 1996 in collaboration with England’s Northern Ballet Theatre Artistic Director Christopher Gable (1940-1998). Widely regarded as a ballet far ahead of its time, the production has maintained its appeal as a cutting-edge and theatrical presentation of the unique style of “dance drama” that made Michael Pink famous.

The score is by composer Philip Feeney, the costume and set design are by Tony Award-winner Lez Brotherston and the lighting design is by Emmy Award-winner David Grill.  

Note: This production contains adult content and adult thrills, so it is recommended for audiences ages 14 and older.

Play a Life-Saving Role - Donate Blood at PBT 

Prior to its Dracula performances, PBT is partnering with the American Red Cross to sponsor a blood drive on Friday, October 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at PBT Studios. Donors can go to redcrossblood.org and enter the code “Dracula Performance” in the “Find a Blood Drive” box. Individuals who donate will receive a discount ticket offer from PBT.

Schedule 

Four Dracula performances will be held at the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh at the following times:

  • Friday, October 31, 2025 – 7:30 p.m.

  • Saturday, November 1, 2025 – 2:00 p.m.

  • Saturday, November 1, 2025 – 7:30 p.m.

  • Sunday, November 2, 2025 – 2:00 p.m.

Ticket Information 

Single tickets for Dracula start at $33.50, including all fees, and are available at pbt.org or by calling 412-456-6666. Tickets for students are available for $27. Season subscription packages are also available. More information is available at pbt.org or by calling 412-454-9107.

Groups purchasing eight or more tickets save up to 50%. More information is available at pbt.org/groups. 

Theater Programs 

Audience members are invited to join PBT at the theater for a series of pre- and post-show programs for Dracula. Details here. 

Friday, October 31 | Opening Night Preview | 6:30 p.m.

More details available shortly here.

Friday, October 31 | Artist Q&A | after the 7:30 p.m. performance

More details available shortly here.


Saturday, November 1 | Tea with the A.D. | 6:45 p.m.

Grab your tea – or your favorite drink – at the bar and join Artistic Director Adam W. McKinney for an informal conversation before the performance. The event will take place in the central lounge area of the Liberty Lounge, located on the 2nd floor of the Benedum.

Saturday, November 1 | Artist Q&A | after the 7:30 p.m. performance

More details available shortly here.


Sunday, November 2 | Curtain Up! | 1 p.m.

This is a special opportunity to see the dancers warming up before the show. Then we’ll chat with PBT Company Artist Caitlyn Mendocino about the production. The event will take place in the theater.

Sunday, November 2 | Audio Described Performance | 2 p.m.

Patrons experience the performance through verbal description of the action on stage, including choreography, storyline, scenery and costumes. If audience members are interested in using the audio description, they should visit Guest Services at the Benedum Center to receive a headset.

Coming Up Next in the 2025-2026 Season:

Watch the 2025-2026 Season Video

  • The Nutcracker,  December 5-28, 2025, Benedum Center

  • America 250 with the PBT Orchestra, February 20-22, 2026, Benedum Center

  • Spring Mix, April 10-12, 2026, August Wilson African American Cultural Center

  • A Midsummer Night’s Dream with the PBT Orchestra, May 15-17, 2026, Benedum Center

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