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ARVIAT
The John Arnalukjuak High School Drama Club drove some members of its audience a little batty this past month in Arviat.

The troupe broke total attendance records for a stage performance in Arviat with its terrifying rendition of Alistair Rice's, The Nemesis of Dracula.

Director Gord Billard admits he was a bit surprised by just how well the production went over.

He said Jonathan Kigusiutnak was superb in the lead role and Meagan Netser was intense in her portrayal of the vampire, Marianne.

"During our first performance for the elementary and middle schools, kindergarten kids were crying their eyes out, terrified, and being led out the doors in the first 10 minutes," said Billard.

"That had a lot to do with the music, tone, smoke and visual effects.

"I opened the show with an introduction from backstage to create a mood.

"I put on my best scary voice and laughter at the end, and I think it created the right effect for the opening of the play."

Billard said the play was surprisingly scary.

He said he expected a lot of children to not take it seriously, but, as it turns out, it was just the opposite.

"There were a few little giggles when people came out in costumes and the audience realized who they were, but then it was total silence and people seemed to be completely taken in by the storyline.

"Jonathan (Kigusiutnak), by nature, is a very quiet, unassuming guy, and it was jaw-dropping for a lot of people to see what he did in the role of Dracula.

"When Jonathan saw himself backstage with his vampire teeth, the makeup and the whole outfit, it just brought his character right to the surface.

"He gave it his all and the transformation was really cool to see."

Billard said the play brought in more than $1,000, with only $2 charged at the door.

He said he estimates between 1,200 to 1,500 attended the plays in total.

"That's pretty impressive when you realize about half the town saw the play.

"I can't say enough about the fantastic job done on the music, costumes, hair and makeup.

"It was a total team effort that really contributed to the overall effect.

"Everyone put their heart and soul into this and it showed."

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