A Legacy of Thrills and Laughter: Luke Newman’s Vision for Dracula’s and Beyond

As Luke Newman steps into the spotlight, the echoes of Dracula’s infamous shows reverberate through Australia’s longest continuously running entertainment venue. The third-generation member of the Newman family, Luke’s journey from ticket sales to CEO has given him a unique perspective on managing and evolving the legendary Dracula’s, as well as the broader Newman Entertainment empire.

A Theatre Life

Luke’s immersion in the theatre from a young age has given him a profound understanding of the business. “I’m so fortunate to have grown up in the theatre and have worked my way through each department. This has given me a unique understanding of each role within the company, and the challenges and perspectives that come with each. That varied experience guides my decision-making every day,” he reflects.

This hands-on approach has allowed Luke to appreciate the intricacies of the business, ensuring that every decision he makes is informed by a comprehensive knowledge of the theatre’s inner workings. It’s a perspective that has proven invaluable in maintaining the high standards and unique charm that Dracula’s is known for.

The Secret to Enduring Success

Dracula’s has remained a beloved fixture in the Australian entertainment landscape for decades. Luke attributes this success to the company’s unwavering commitment to evolution. “From day one, our goal has been to provide a unique and unexpected entertainment experience to our audience, and we’ve never stopped trying to achieve that,” he explains.

The passion and dedication of the Newman family are evident in every detail of Dracula’s. “As a family-owned and operated business, we put so much passion into everything we do. I think audiences feel that. From what we put on the walls of our Gold Coast venue, to the content in each show, every single aspect of the Dracula’s experience is carefully curated to ensure customers are blown away, time after time,” Luke adds.

The Return of ‘Sanctuary’

Dracula’s, the iconic vaudevillian variety show, will embark on an Australian tour with their brand-new show ‘Sanctuary’ from August to November 2024, following a sold-out season across Australia and New Zealand in 2023. Tickets are now available for performances in Hobart, Launceston, Melbourne, Geelong, Wollongong, Cairns, Canberra, Adelaide, Darwin, Port Macquarie, and Perth. ‘Sanctuary’ promises a thrilling experience with death-defying aerial acrobatics, knockout vocals, live rock music, sultry burlesque, and razor-sharp comedy, all presented in two 40-minute acts with an intermission. Established in a Melbourne laneway in 1980, Dracula’s has become an Australian entertainment icon, known for its risqué burlesque and comedy, delighting over five million attendees in its 43-year history. Newman Entertainment CEO Luke Newman assures audiences of a spectacular show that is bigger and better than ever, filled with unexpected and engaging performances, making ‘Sanctuary’ a must-see event that combines seduction, silliness, and pure energy.

 

 

This passion and dedication are set to shine once again with the upcoming tour of ‘Sanctuary,’ following the success of previous sold-out seasons. Luke is enthusiastic about the new elements and reworked aspects of this show. “We’re in our 4th year of touring Dracula’s now, and after such a successful run of our first show ‘Resurrection,’ we’re very excited to be back bigger and better. ‘Sanctuary’ boasts a killer soundtrack and an extremely talented cast of local and international artists. Each of them brings their craft together to create a variety show with some completely unexpected moments.”

 

 

The Creative Vision of Adelaide Clark

Central to the success of ‘Sanctuary’ is Adelaide Clark, the show’s Casting & Creative Director. With a career that spans over 15 years and includes collaborations with high-profile artists like Fatboy Slim, Delta Goodrem, and Dami Im, Adelaide brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the production. “I’m so excited for EVERYTHING but – mostly for our incredible cast and crew! They are a phenomenal group from all over Australia and internationally. Aside from their brilliant talents on stage, offstage they are just great people,” Adelaide shares.

Adelaide’s varied roles in live music and bands have influenced the creation of ‘Sanctuary,’ bringing a concert element to the show that sets it apart from traditional musicals or burlesque shows. Her work as a creative director involves tailoring roles to each performer’s strengths and traits, ensuring authenticity and highlighting their unique talents. “This approach amplifies authenticity and really highlights the talent, resulting in the best possible production. I strongly believe in collaboration—if the cast loves what they are presenting, the audience will too,” she explains.

Integrating Mental Health Advocacy

Adelaide is also passionate about mental health and incorporates this into her work in the arts. Studying in the mental health field and volunteering with Lifeline, she strives to create a supportive environment for her team. “I believe artists perform best when they feel supported, encouraged, and safe. I always strive to create that environment and develop strong relationships within our team,” she asserts.

Through ‘Sanctuary,’ Adelaide hopes to convey that laughter is the best medicine, providing a sense of escapism and a comforting distraction for those who might be struggling. “With ‘Sanctuary’ – though it’s incredibly tongue-in-cheek in a ‘medical regard’ – I suppose we hope to convey that laughter truly is the best medicine. I always aim for the theatre to offer a sense of escapism and have the potential to be a comforting distraction for someone who might be struggling,” she says.

Keeping the Show Fresh

Dracula’s unique blend of risqué burlesque, comedy, aerial acrobatics, and live rock music has delighted audiences for years. However, maintaining this freshness poses both challenges and opportunities. “We have such an incredible long-serving fan base who know and love the Dracula’s experience, so we love evolving and honouring elements of the original product, whilst keeping things new and fresh,” Luke notes.

Utilizing older music, rearranged with a contemporary edge, helps to bridge generations. Current trends in costuming and the integration of new technology into production elements keep the show vibrant and relevant. “Our blacklight puppetry has been a signature of the brand for 40 years, and we love continuing to feature this element, which is something you definitely don’t see every day!” Luke says with pride.

Balancing Legacy and Innovation

Carrying the Newman family legacy is both an honor and a responsibility. Luke is determined to balance this legacy with the need to innovate and adapt. “I’m fortunate that the entire family is well and truly behind me and want to see the brand continue and succeed. And part of that is knowing that if we want things to stay the same, they need to change,” he explains.

Leveraging the lessons learned over six decades, Luke strives to continue what has historically been successful while introducing new and exciting elements to the Dracula’s experience. “My goal has always been to continue what has historically been successful, whilst adding new and exciting elements to the experience,” he says.

As Luke Newman and Adelaide Clark lead Dracula’s and Newman Entertainment into the future, audiences can look forward to a blend of time-honored tradition and thrilling innovation, ensuring that the legacy of laughter, thrills, and unforgettable entertainment continues for generations to come.

For more information and to book click HERE.