The Vampire Cat A Play in one act from the Japanese legend of the Nabeshima cat

"The Vampire Cat" by Gerard Van Etten is a one-act play inspired by a Japanese legend that unfolds in medieval Japan, where Prince Hizen is plagued by terrifying nightmares and a haunting female figure. Set within the Prince’s palace, the narrative plunges into a world where dreams and reality intertwine, creating a chilling atmosphere of psychological horror. Prince Hizen is tormented by visions of his wife, O Toyo, who may be a malevolent spirit in the form of a cat, so the play explores themes of supernatural occurrences, obsession, and fear, as the prince seeks resolve to his terrifying dreams, a brave soldier, Ito Soda, steps forward to help. As Ito Soda keeps guard, the play culminates in a suspenseful confrontation where the true nature of O Toyo is questioned. The play leaves the audience contemplating the unsettling balance between love and darkness.