Have youatched ‘Night of the Living Dead’?
No, you have not. Not until you’ve been part of the unique twist by Bricolage Theater’s Midnight Radio Series. This is their 14th year in residency with this unique live theater experience. And it does not disappoint.
Midnight Radio is a live-radio-style series featuring vintage sound effects and local parodies. In this edition, the cast broadcasts the film minus original audio. Instead, they creatively reconstruct the dialogue with a distinctive Pittsburgh flair.
Featuring five actors playing many munchie roles, the show is a rambolic tribute to all things Pittsburgh, from language to locations. If you don’t listen intently, you’ll miss a lot. Yet, the ultimate Pittsburgh movie playing in the background is a fitting tribute to the general concept. More than a tribute to the film itself, the show is a love letter to all the spooky, spectacular things about our region. Yes, that includes crossing bridges and asking where exactly did Cogo’s … go?
Lots of throwaway Pittsburghese. Corny zombie jokes. Fun fact: the word zombie is not used in the original film. Not at all. It is liberally used in this show.
Live foley and sound effects. Voices contorted to bring us back to a multi-generational family barbecue and the era when news stations used their own helicopters to assess traffic conditions. Also the realization that Gen Z are now journalists.
The show is backed by the powerhouse performance of Cello Fury. They provide the score music, but also a few feature numbers including the beloved ‘Zombie’ by the Cranberries. The remainder of the performance featured recognizable clips that I didn’t quite place. A list of songs would be a welcome addition to the program.
The show stars Tami Dixon, Sam Lothard, Jason McCune, Sheila McKenna, and Sam Turich. Adaptation by the multi-talented Tami Dixon. The joy of local live theater is that you’ll recognize everyone.
My friend Kelly, who happens to not be from Pittsburgh, said it was the best live theater performance she has seen. Kelly has been with me to see several shows this year so that’s a Pittsburgh compliment.
Support local live theater. Support your need for a good belly laugh. Buy a drink to support City Theatre. I had a rum based drink that was less sweet than I expected. Once more, I will toss out the idea that City Theatre should print the recipes in the program AND provide a play list for the music.
From the city where the dead first rose, comes a night of living jags! Watch these slippy stalkers shamble all over tahn to feast on all yinz brains. Get ready to get your gutcheez in a bunch, cause we’re taking this horror classic to a whole ‘nother level featuring musical guest: Cello Fury. It’s going to be a blood curdling night of aural anarchy. Get your tickets before they come to get yinz, Barb! Oh relax, there’s nothing to be ascared of, this one’s a no brainer.
‘Night of the Living Dead N’at’ runs through Sun, Nov 15, 2026 at City Theatre on the South Side. More information on tickets including some discounts.
Special shout out to Darius at City Theatre for his gracious accommodation of my ADA request. Don’t be afraid to ask.
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