There is still time to catch Lookingglass Theatre's delightful Untitled Vampire Play, which debuted earlier this season. Written by Kevin Douglas and directed by Devon de Mayo, this world premiere blends horror, romantic comedy, family drama, and absurdist humor into a fast-paced presentation that embraces vampire mythology while never taking itself too seriously. The result is an entertaining, clever production that delivers laughs alongside genuine emotional stakes.
The story begins with a familiar romantic comedy setup: Dom nervously introduces his girlfriend, Val, to his parents. The twist, of course, is that Val is a vampire. From there, the play expands into an increasingly chaotic tale involving serial murders, ancient vampire politics, dysfunctional family relationships, and the complicated question of what two people must sacrifice to build a future together. While the premise sounds outrageous, Douglas grounds the supernatural elements in recognizable human emotions, allowing the audience to invest in the characters even as the plot veers into humorously bizarre territory.
The ensemble cast embraces the play's tonal shifts with remarkable confidence. Courtney Rikki Green brings warmth, intelligence, and vulnerability to Val, making her far more than a stereotypical creature of the night. Jordan Anthony Arredondo gives Dom an earnest awkwardness that makes his predicament both funny and relatable. Kareem Bandealy and Cynthia Kaye McWilliams shine as Dom's parents, balancing comic timing with believable family dynamics, while Jin Park and Walter Briggs provide many of the evening's biggest laughs through their eccentric supporting characters.
As expected from Lookingglass Theatre, the production values are exceptional. Alyssa Mohn's inventive scenic design transforms the stage into a gothic playground, complete with coffins that emerge dramatically from the floor. Lighting, sound, and fight choreography work seamlessly together to create a world that feels both theatrical and cinematic. The show's playful use of stage blood becomes part of the fun rather than mere shock value, adding to the production's gleefully campy atmosphere.
What makes Untitled Vampire Play especially enjoyable is its willingness to celebrate vampire lore while poking fun at its conventions. The script is packed with references to classic vampire horror traditions as well as comical popular culture references including Sesame Street's Count von Count. Yet the dialogue feels modern, witty, and distinctly Chicagoan. Douglas finds humor not only in vampire clichés but also in the universal anxieties surrounding dating, family approval, and long-term commitment. The supernatural premise ultimately becomes a vehicle for exploring love, identity, and the compromises relationships demand.
Ultimately, Untitled Vampire Play succeeds because it knows exactly what kind of theatrical experience it wants to provide: inventive, funny, occasionally bloody, and consistently entertaining. It showcases Lookingglass Theatre's flair for imaginative storytelling while offering audiences a fresh, funny take on vampire mythology. Whether you're a lifelong horror fan or simply looking for an engaging experience at the theater, this production is well worth sinking your teeth into.
Untitled Vampire Play runs through July 12th at Lookingglass Theatre, 163 E. Pearson. Purchase tickets at lookingglasstheatre.org