Dacre Stoker, great-grand nephew of Bram Stoker, author of “Dracula,” will present two multi-media presentations — the first, “Stoker on Stoker, Mysteries behind the Writing of Bram Stoker’s novel ‘Dracula,’” and the second, “A Modern Day Tour of Transylvania” — to investigate the inseparable connection between the real Prince Vlad Dracula lll and literature’s Count Dracula.

Dacre will also be available at the depot to sell and sign copies of his sequel “Dracula: The Un-Dead.” Published in 2009, the sequel was released and written by Dacre Stoker and screenwriter, Ian Holt. Along with their research, the book is based on Bram Stoker’s own handwritten notes for characters and plot threads taken from the original edition. The release of this book was Dacre Stoker’s debut as a writer.

Dacre Stoker‘s compelling and informative presentation weaves together the details of Dracula’s history with Stoker family history, and Bram Stoker’s life in Dublin and London, then separates fact from popular fiction, revealing the truth about all things Stoker and Dracula. Customized to appeal to high school and university groups, Gothic scholars, vampire fans, or history buffs, “Stoker on Stoker” has fascinated audiences around the world by exploring the issues behind the mysteries that have baffled Dracula scholars and fans since the book’s publication in 1897.

Stoker’s multimedia presentation “Stoker on Stoker” will be at the Saluda Historic Depot on Saturday, Oct. 15 starting at 7 p.m. Dacre’s second presentation, “A Modern Day Tour of Transylvania” will be on Sunday, Oct. 16 with a book signing at 1 p.m. by Dacre Stoker and the presentation from 1:30-3 p.m. Tickets include libations for the Saturday presentation.

There are a limited number of seats available so organizers suggest purchasing tickets or reserving seats early.

“There will be a Low Country Boil benefit and a free Fish Fry in Saluda that Saturday afternoon at the Green River Brew and Saluda Center respectively so folks can eat before coming to the show,” says organizer Cathy Jackson. “It will be a great day to appreciate Saluda’s benevolence.”

“This was a popular event last year and the depot was packed so we had to do two presentations to accommodate everyone. This year we will have arrangements for everyone to be seated comfortably,” says chairperson, Judy Ward.  “This event replaces our regular Saluda Train Tales for the month of October and is a perfect experience to put you in the Halloween spirit.”

Tickets are on sale and available at Thompson’s Store, Saluda Historic Depot, or Beverly-Hanks Saluda office. Reservations can be made by calling 828-749-2321.  Books, Dracula T-shirts, and posters will be available for sale. Thanks to Dacre Stoker’s generosity, all proceeds from the event will go toward the fundraising efforts to fund the recent purchase of the train depot.

The Saluda Historic Depot will also be hosting a Halloween/Potluck Costume Party at the depot and everyone is invited to come dressed in their favorite costume. Admission is a dish to share with everyone. The party is Halloween, Monday, Oct. 31 starting at 7 p.m.

– article submitted by Cathy Jackson