The Dracula Experience, Loudoun County’s newest Halloween attraction, brings thrills to George C. Marshall’s Dodona Manor in Leesburg until November 3.
This outdoor production takes the classic tale of Dracula and transforms it into an interactive journey where you’re not just a spectator, but a participant in the story.
As the night unfolds, you’ll navigate the grounds, encountering Dracula, his three vampire brides, and other eerie characters.
Produced by Naut Human Productions, a video production company founded by Leesburg native Cullen Gray, this is a theatrical event unlike traditional haunted houses.
For Gray, Dracula was a perfect fit for Dodona Manor. “I have some loose family ties to both Bram Stoker and the Salem Witch Trials, so I joke that horror has always been in my blood,” Gray says.
“Dracula, in particular, has been a bucket list story for me, so when I found Dodona Manor, it was the first thing I thought of.”
Combining live performance with the suspense of a haunted attraction, the hour-long experience promises to immerse attendees in a chilling environment without the intensity of extreme horror.
The production takes place in a 360-degree format, beginning on the front porch of the manor before moving through various outdoor scenes, allowing participants to engage with actors and witness key moments of the Dracula story.
“The local response has been incredible. We sold out several shows our first weekend and the next two weekends are looking like they’ll sell out as well,” Gray says.
“It’s cool to see this production resonate so strongly with the community. It’s definitely the right season for a creepy vampire experience.”
Gray says that a portion of the event’s profits goes to the George C. Marshall International Center, and Fabbioli Cellars provides themed drinks, including blood bag sangria and mulled wine, at each show.
Beyond just the Halloween thrills, Gray and his team are committed to spotlighting the history and beauty of the property itself.
“As a Leesburg native it’s really exciting for me to put this production up in Loudoun County. We hope it gets audiences excited about Dodona Manor, leaving them wanting to come back another day and take a formal tour,” he says.
The Dracula Experience is perfect for both families and fans of Halloween fright. Performances run Thursdays through Sundays.
According to Gray, this won’t be the last time you’ll see Dracula.
“There are some early-stage plans to bring this production to other historic properties across the country. Our hope with Leesburg is to return to Dodona Manor with another classic monster tale next fall,” he says.
Tickets are $40 for adults and $35 for children 12 and under, with group ticket packages available for those looking to experience the fright together.
312 E. Market St., Leesburg
Feature image courtesy Naut Human Productions
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