In the same way that everyone sees something different in an inkblot, people want different things from their theatre-going experiences. If you’re someone who likes to have a lot of background on what the experience will be like before you come to the theatre, read on. This page focuses on CONTENT INFORMATION.
There may be some low-key spoilers ahead.
Not sure how you feel about zombies?
Read Why Night of the Living Dead Matters. The article contains some movie spoilers, but the play adaptation will still hold plenty of surprises.
Return to the main NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD page for schedule and ticketing information
HOW LONG IS IT?
About 2 hours (including one 15-minute intermission)
WHAT HAPPENS?
THEMES: survival, racism, sexism, authoritarianism, police brutality, undead brutality, inability of groups to work together, and the gloriously macabre portrayal of the dead rising
A comic adaptation of George Romero’s seminal 1968 horror film, the play begins with a fairly faithful retelling of the original film and then pivots to take on a life of its own with hilarious, thoughtful, and self-aware commentary.
IS THIS PLAY FUNNY OR SAD OR WEIRD OR WHAT?
Yes.
As with a lot of the work Rorschach chooses, NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD explores a range of human experiences. Though there are some dark, scary, and shocking moments, ultimately this is a comedy and it is all done with a great deal of self awareness and fun.
IS THIS PLAY A MUSICAL?
Though the adaptors were responsible for the EVIL DEAD MUSICAL, this play is not a musical. There is however a nod to the genre that will please fans no doubt.
IS THIS PLAY GOING TO BE APPROPRIATE FOR MY MOM/KID/PASTOR/CO-WORKER/1ST DATE?
“Appropriate” is a relative word, but here are a few things to know when deciding who to bring to the theatre with you:
We recommend our audiences be 13+ for the stylized violence, but ultimately it’s your decision. The information below may help guide your choices.
LANGUAGE:
There is very little swearing – there are a few four letter words in Act 2.
SEXUAL CONTENT:
There is no sexual activity depicted or discussed. There is some kissing and one brief “make-out” moment.
VIOLENCE & GORE:
There is a great deal of zombie-related violence. Much of it is played for comedy but it is scary at times as well. Props guns are fired. Bodies of the dead and undead will be seen on stage. There will be plenty of stage blood and body parts, both external and internal, will be…disembodied and occasionally consumed.
INTERACTIVITY:
Are you going to be responsible for warding off the zombie apocalypse directly? No.
Action will take place very close to you, but won’t directly involve you. There may or may not be a “splash zone” for those who are into that kind of thing, but everyone will have ample opportunity to sit elsewhere if they wish. The play is a seated experience and should only provide perceived peril and not any actual harm.
If you have any additional questions about content,
please email us at info@rorschachtheatre.com.
