The Omaha Community Playhouse is bringing “Evil Dead: The Musical” to its stage Friday for some unconventional fun and will run through March 17.
As the title implies, this show puts music to the popular Evil Dead cult movie series from the 80s. This combination puts it in a similar category as The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
“‘Evil Dead: The Musical’ mixes bubbly fun with cheesy horror movie antics for one great show,” said Creighton theatre major Shannon Lampkin.
According to the musical’s personal website, this show got its start in Toronto, Canada, and has since spread rapidly to showcase in locations all over the world. However, this is the first time that “Evil Dead: The Musical” will be making its way to the Omaha stage.
According to a synopsis on Omahaplayhouse.com, “Evil Dead: The Musical” tells the story of five teenagers who find themselves at the foot of an abandoned cabin in the woods during their Spring Break. An evil force is set loose in the cabin and the group is left fending for their human lives.
Carl Beck, artistic director for the Omaha Community Playhouse, is directing this musical. He has assembled a cast of young Omaha actors. He has a specific vision of how he wants this show to be portrayed.
“This show is targeted at young movie fans and lovers of zombies,” said Beck. “It’s a fun, good time put on by an extremely talented cast.”
This satirical show gives a few of its audience members a special surprise. Referred to as “The Splatter Zone,” the first row in the theatre is reserved for those who aren’t afraid to get a little messy. Provided with protective coverings, those audience members located in the front row will be drenched in fake blood throughout the show.
“Half of the fun is guessing if or when you might get sprayed,” said Lampkin.
Splatter Zone seats can be reserved at the Omaha Community Playhouse Box Office and do not cost more than a normal seat.
Beck believes that this Splatter Zone paired with a general interest will draw people to the show.
“I think a genuine curiosity to figure out what this play is all about will bring people in,” said Beck.
As fun as this show sounds, parents should be cautious of bringing their children along. The Omaha Community Playhouse website clearly states that this show “is intended for mature audiences.” There are scenes containing strong language and violence that would not be appropriate for young children.
Lampkin has a feeling that many Creighton students would enjoy a production like this. She thinks that even people who don’t like horror movies or musicals will think differently of “Evil Dead: The Musical” because it’s a show that “doesn’t take itself seriously.”
Arts & Sciences senior Maddie Shea has never seen the musical before, but has a good feeling about it. She even appreciates the fact that is meant for mature audiences.
“When it come to theatre, I think it’s awesome to push the envelope and keep audiences guessing,” said Shea. “I would totally see this show, but that doesn’t mean I would take my grandmother to it!”