We are thrilled that Ron Evenson of Houston Dental Clinic stepped forward to design and create original sets of fangs for our resident vampires in this season’s Dracula: Prince of Blood. If you were in the audience for the 2002 Commonweal version of Dracula by Steven Dietz, you may recall that Ron created the fangs for those creatures of the night, as well. In this edition of Drama Unfolds, Ron describes the behind the scenes process of creating that most necessary of vampire tools.
Vampire Fang Revival
by Ron Evenson
Kieran Dixon (son of the playwright) and the Vampire Vixens.
You’ve been designing and creating fangs for quite a few years. Tell us about that first incarnation.
— That began when I made fangs for myself for a Halloween party and the boys thought I should make them some also. Over the years, John (my son and dentist) and I have made various appliances for friends who knew we could do that sort of thing. Bugs Bunny teeth were popular!
When you heard Commonweal was doing another production requiring vampires, I understand you volunteered to make custom fangs again. What prompted you to do that?
— My wife, Rae, and I love the Commonweal! We have seen every production at least once every year since the beginning back in 1989 at the St Mane Theater, with very few exceptions. We actually had bit parts in one of the very early plays and really got hooked on the Commonweal. We like to do whatever we can to help out and promote the theatre. This is one way we can show our appreciation.
Ron Evenson sizing up Dracula…aka Jeremy van Meter
Where does one even start in the process of creating an original set of fangs?
— We start with impressions of the actor’s mouths so we can make models to see how the teeth bite together and also note the shape and size of the teeth and facial features that may influence the shape of the fangs. Then we make wax fangs on original models. When we are satisfied with the wax fangs, we duplicate them in acrylic resin.
I understand that you and John made the fangs for our 2002 production of Dracula…has anything changed about the process of making them 16 years later?
— The process is pretty much the same as in 2002.
What is the most challenging part of that process?
— The final fitting where we make sure the fangs fit properly and the actors are comfortable wearing them.
You basically donated the time and effort taken to create these pieces. Can you speak to that idea a little further?
— John and I both feel that endeavors in our area such as the Commonweal need the support of local people to be successful. And in turn, these endeavors are vital to the health and growth of our rural communities and to the quality of life we enjoy here. We are grateful that we have the opportunity to help where we can.
It must be great fun to work on. Can you describe that or offer any highlights?
— The highlight for me was being able to again collaborate with my son John just as we did in 2002. We both enjoy having used our skills to produce the fangs for both of these fine productions.
Seeing the amazing vampire fangs created at Houston Dental Clinic up close and personal at the Commonweal is just one of the many great things to do in Lanesboro. What’s another one? Take the short mile and a half drive out of town to visit Bob at Avian Acres Wild Bird Supply. This serene Scandinavian farm among bluffs and hardwood forests offers some of the best birdwatching and selection of supplies in the area.
Dracula: Prince of Blood opens with a gala celebration on Saturday, September 8 at 7:30. Get your tickets for this extra special event.
Thanks for reading and I’ll see you at the theatre — Jeremy.
