Veliko Tarnovo theatre's Dracula musical nominated for the 2026 Crystal Lyre

The Konstantin Kisimov Music and Drama Theatre in Veliko Tarnovo is among the nominees for Bulgaria's 2026 Crystal Lyre awards. The nomination recognises the premiere of Frank Wildhorn's musical Dracula in the Operetta and Musical category.

The nomination appears on the official list published by the Union of Bulgarian Musicians and Dancers. It cites the premiere on 10 December 2025 and the work of conductor Georgi Patrikov, director Petko Bonev, set and costume designer Asya Stoimenova, and 3D mapping artist Lora Runevska.

The musical is based on Bram Stoker's novel, with book and lyrics by Don Black and Christopher Hampton. The Veliko Tarnovo theatre's artistic ensembles take part in the production, which combines a symphony orchestra with contemporary stage techniques.

Since its Veliko Tarnovo premiere, the production has also been staged in other Bulgarian cities. The nomination places the theatre's team among the candidates recognised by the professional community, but does not mean that the show has won an award.

A representative of the theatre also sent information about the nomination to the 5000.news editorial mailbox on 23 October. The organisers' official nominations list confirms the category and production.

Sources

• Official nominations for the 2026 Crystal Lyre awards
• Konstantin Kisimov Music and Drama Theatre — about the production
• Published report on the nomination

Photo: An illustrative photograph, not from the performance: Liana S / Unsplash.