Vampire Lesbians of Sodom begins in the titular city, as a sacrificial virgin (Jaclyn Morrison) is presented to the Succubus (Ella Kridler) only to be turned into a vampire herself. We follow these two witty vampires throughout history, from the Golden Age of Hollywood to 1980s Las Vegas. With chemistry and charisma, these two sure know how to work a stage and our hearts. The play, by writer, actor, and drag artist Charles Busch was first performed in 1984, and was so popular in its Off-Broadway run that it ran for five years, one of the longest runs in history. Just as Vampire Lesbians of Sodom captured audiences then, Worcester State’s Almost Off Book’s production brought the rivalry of La Condessa and Madeleine Astarte to life for audiences in Fuller Theater.
During the production, Jaclyn Morrison’s screams sent chills down our spines and made us question our own sexualities. The beautiful costume, designed by Aiden Bourdeau and debuted by Ella Kreidler in her opening monologue, along with the passion of all the actors made for a wonderful night of theater.
The production, directed by Aiden Bourdeau, brings audiences through history through a use of music and costumes, beginning in Sodom, where Madeleine, dressed in Biblical garb, is presented to the Succubus. The use of music and lighting clearly shows the audience when they are time traveling and immediately sets the tone of the new era. Led by lead actors Jaclyn Morrison (one of our very own reporters!) and Ella Kreidler, the cast deeply understands the campy comedy of Busch’s work, earning non stop laughter from the audience, and even creating moments of genuine connection as the two leads come to understand each other. Vampire Lesbians of Sodom is genuinely hilarious from beginning to end, enchanting audiences with its wit and glamor, just as it did in 1984.
Middle: Roan Testa, Destiny Delisle
Back: Isabel Zirtidis, Catherine Shine, Jaclyn Morrison, Aiden Bordeau, Ella Kreidler, Celina Moore, Kaia Gray