The Brain That Wouldn't Die! The Musical at Riverside Arts Center

This Halloween season, The Brain That Wouldn’t Die! (The Musical) is set to take the stage at the Riverside Arts Center for a limited run, blending cult-classic horror with dark humor, thrilling music, and thought-provoking themes. Based on the infamous 1962 B-movie, this musical, written by Carla Margolis, reimagines the story as a unique theatrical experience, filled with surprises, dynamic performances, and unforgettable songs.

At the heart of the show is Janet Paite, played by the magnetic Jacqui Blue, a registered nurse excited to begin a new chapter with her fiancé, Dr. Bill Dowell. Their world is turned upside down after a tragic accident, pushing Bill (Zach Husak) into a dangerous quest to set things right. However, his pursuit of scientific achievement begins to raise questions about the lengths to which he’s willing to go for love. Bill’s journey underscores one of the show’s central themes: the moral compromises that arise when ambition and ethics collide.

Timothy Henning delivers a commanding performance as both Dr. Walter Dowell, Bill’s overbearing father, and the fearsome Creature, symbolizing the darker consequences of unchecked scientific experimentation. Henning also brings dark comedic relief as Pinky Johnson, the crass emcee of a local strip club. He expertly blends these tones, making for a compelling contrast between horror, humor, and heartfelt moments.

Maria Hollobaugh takes on the role of Dolores, a waitress who crosses paths with Bill outside the club, unknowingly stepping into a dangerous plot. Her story brings to light the show’s themes of exploitation and survival in a world driven by power dynamics.

The ensemble, including Kimberly Lock, Amy Van Dyke, and Kennedy Vernengo, brings vibrant energy to the stage in their dual roles as club dancers and nurses at the hospital. Their dynamic performances add depth and excitement to the production, captivating the audience from start to finish. Amy Van Dyke also contributes as the show's choreographer, crafting dynamic dance numbers that enhance the overall production and captivate the audience.

The music of The Brain That Wouldn’t Die! (The Musical) is a standout element, composed by Carla Margolis with arrangements by Shawn McDonald. The score spans a wide range of genres, from gospel and R&B to jazz, 1960s popular music, and romantic ethereal beauty. Margolis’s melodies are both haunting and catchy, creating earworms that linger long after the performance. The diverse musical styles contribute to the show's rich atmosphere and emotional depth, enhancing every scene with vibrant and evocative tunes.

Adding to the show's atmosphere is the phenomenal band, led by music director Shawn McDonald on keyboard. The band features Brennan Duncan Andes on basses, Brian E. Buckner on second keyboard, and John Churchville on drums and percussion. Their dynamic and atmospheric music amplifies the suspense, humor, and emotion of every scene, enriching the overall theatrical experience.

The production’s technical team ensures that each moment is visually captivating and immersive. Jeff Alder, the lighting designer and director, enhances the mood of the show with his expert lighting design, seamlessly transitioning between the eerie, comical, and dramatic moments. The production is brought to life through the expertise of Stage Manager Katie Kezeliean, ensuring a smooth and cohesive performance, and Audio Engineer Jef Stevens, whose work enhances the overall sound quality and impact of the show.

The Brain That Wouldn’t Die! (The Musical) is a theatrical experience that goes beyond its cult-classic roots. With its exploration of ambition, ethics, body autonomy, and exploitation, it invites audiences to reflect on the choices we make and the consequences they bring, all while keeping them entertained with plenty of laughs, thrills, and fantastic music.

Don’t miss out on this exciting, thought-provoking production! Performances run from October 25 to November 2 at the Riverside Arts Center. Tickets are available now at brainmusical.com, but they won’t last long!

Performance Dates:
October 25 at 7:00 PM
October 26 at 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM
October 27 at 2:00 PM
October 31 at 7:00 PM (Halloween Special!)
November 1 at 7:00 PM
November 2 at 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM

Ticket Prices:
General Admission: $15
Seniors, Students, and Bridge Card Holders: $10

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://brainmusical.com. Get ready for a thrilling and unforgettable ride through madness, melody, and mayhem!