MOBILE, AL – Mobile Ballet kicks off its 2026-2027 Season with a brand new production of Dracula on Saturday, October 24, at 7:30 p.m. at the Saenger Theatre. The one-night-only performance makes its debut on the Saenger stage just in time for Halloween.
Raul Peinado, who danced as Dracula with Mobile Ballet in 2014, returns this time as guest choreographer to create this all-new version. "Working with Raul on this production has been an incredible experience, and I think audiences are going to see Dracula in a whole new light," said Artistic Director Katia Garza.
Inspired by Bram Stoker's classic tale, the ballet brings this gothic drama to life onstage: a count, his three brides, and the eternal pull between light and darkness, told through classical and contemporary ballet. The ballet is spellbinding rather than scary, with digital projections and special effects creating a cinematic atmosphere for the dancers.
"Dracula has always been one of my favorite roles, both as a choreographer and as a dancer," said Peinado. "My choreography allows us to explore the tension and danger at the heart of the story while giving the dancers an opportunity to make these characters come to life in a very physical and expressive way."
Daniel Benavides performs the title role, with Israel Rodriguez as Van Helsing, Andres Castillo as Jonathan Harker, and Mobile Ballet Company dancers Natalie Crepeau and Aubree Cate Joiner as Lucy and Mina. Felipe Valentini, Zion Harris, Jackson Borowski, and Humberto Ramazzina perform as the Four Suitors, with the remaining roles danced by members of the Mobile Ballet Company.
Individual tickets for Dracula are $25 to $69, and season ticket packages are available for all three season productions, ranging from $65-$186.
Additional Pre-Show Event:
Guests can start their evening early at Bite Before the Ballet from 5:30-7:00pm prior to the Dracula performance, at Mobile Arts Council's Room 1927 adjacent to the Saenger. Sponsored by Aloha Hospitality, the VIP event features custom-crafted savory bites and sweet treats, themed cocktails, a meet and greet with the cast, and a contest for the best Dracula-inspired attire. Attendees get to park before the crowds, enjoy the celebration, then walk next door for the 7:30 p.m. performance.
Tickets for Bite Before the Ballet are $75 per person.
MORE TO COME THIS SEASON
Dracula is the first of three productions in Mobile Ballet's 2026-2027 Season at the Saenger Theatre, followed by The Nutcracker on December 19-20 and The Little Mermaid on March 13-14.
A special Nutcracker Suite abbreviated performance will also be staged at Coastal Alabama Community College in Bay Minette on December 11 during the Christmas Fest.
Discover Dance performances for K-12 student field trips this season include The Nutcracker on December 11 in Bay Minette and on December 17 in Mobile, and The Little Mermaid on March 12 in Mobile.
Additional special events this season include the Nutcracker Holiday Brunch on December 20 and the Little Mermaid Tea on February 28.
For tickets and more information, visit www.mobileballet.org/performances
