Playhouse Merced and Bob Wells Carpet Cleaning will present “Night of the Living Dead: Live!,” opening Friday for a limited run of live performances that puts audiences in the middle of the action.

Directed by Paul Wegner, “Night of the Living Dead: Live!” Is based on George A. Romero’s iconic 1968 zombie film. The production brings the classic tale of survival to the stage with a theatrical twist.

“’Night of the Living Dead’ is a movie I’ve loved for years, so getting the opportunity to direct this stage adaptation is incredibly exciting for me,” said Wegner. “I also have a special connection to this production because I was part of the cast the last time Playhouse Merced produced it. Coming back to it from the director’s chair is a full-circle moment, and I’m excited to share this crazy, fun and frightening experience with the community.”

Audiences can expect plenty of suspense, horror and dark humor as a group of survivors barricades themselves inside a farmhouse while the undead gather outside. But at Playhouse Merced, the carnage doesn’t necessarily stay onstage.

This production features a splash zone, putting audience members close enough to the action that they may want to dress accordingly. The splash zone adds an extra layer of excitement and unpredictability to a production designed to be experienced live – where you never quite know what might happen next.

“Night of the Living Dead: Live!” promises an evening of scares, laughs and theatrical mayhem.

“Night of the Living Dead: Live!” opens Friday and runs for two weeks. Show times are 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. on Sundays. Visit playhousemerced.com to purchase tickets and to learn more about the 2026-27 season.