Pima Theater Reimagines a Cult Horror Classic with Film-infused Production, Oct. 16 - 26.
Tucson, AZ – Pima Community College’s Theater Arts Department brings a cult classic to the stage this fall with “Night of the Living Dead,” adapted and directed by Chris Will, based on the 1968 film, screenplay by George A. Romero and John A. Russo. This thrilling production reimagines the iconic horror film as an immersive theatrical event that combines live performance with cinema, creating a unique experience for audiences.
Joining Will is Art Almquist as Assistant Director, along with an innovative team of collaborators. The production will feature extensive video integration, including actual footage from the original film alongside newly recorded scenes created in partnership with Pima’s Film and Animation Department. Under the leadership of Department Head Robert Loomis, an industry veteran, and cinematography instructor Larry Foster, known for his engaging lectures and commitment to student success, film students are producing new sequences in Romero’s signature style. Their creativity and enthusiasm are adding a fresh, hands-on learning opportunity while shaping the production’s cinematic dimension.
“The idea of weaving film directly into the live performance was too exciting to pass up,” Will said. “By collaborating with our Film and Animation Department, we’re not only honoring the original movie but also giving our students the chance to create something new and immersive. I think audiences will be surprised by just how alive this production feels.”
The set itself, designed by Anthony Cordaro, supports projected clips, blurring the line between stage and screen. Returning artist Mika Gorden is contributing their talents as the Projection Designer to deepen the immersive atmosphere. Together, these creative contributions ensure that this “Night of the Living Dead” will be both a loving tribute to the film and a bold exploration of its enduring themes of survival, human nature and the fear of losing control.
In addition to its regular performances, “Night of the Living Dead” will feature special late-night shows at 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday evenings. These performances, geared toward mature audiences (18+), will turn up the scares with extra gore and edgier content, offering a more intense version of the production for die-hard horror fans.
- What: Pima Theater presents “Night of the Living Dead”
- When: October 16-26, Thursday-Saturday, 7 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, (18+) 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 2 p.m.; ASL Night, Oct. 24
- Where: Black Box Theatre, West Campus Center for the Arts, 2202 W. Anklam Road, Tucson, Arizona
- Tickets: $10/$15; PCC students receive one free ticket
- Information: Tickets available through eventbrite.com; Box Office Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 12-5 p.m. and one hour before each performance. For more information, please call 520-206-6986 or go to pimaarts.com/events.
Contact:
Carina Garcia, Marketing and Publicity Coordinator
Arts Division - Pima Community College
clisalda@pima.edu, 520-206-3062
Chris Will, Director and Head of Theater Department
cwill2@pima.edu