‘Evil Dead the Musical’ makes a ‘splash’ at Maverick Theater in Fullerton, California

As someone who attends a lot of theatre, I’m surprised I wasn’t already familiar with Maverick Theater as they’ve been in their current space since 2005. But I’m sure happy I found it. An unassuming brick building houses quite a surprise inside. The building is basically a big, empty warehouse. But the way the space has been utilized inside makes it much more than a black box.

A proper proscenium stage and bar has been constructed with theatrical lighting to make for a comforting environment. Disney fans will love knowing the look of the theater was designed by Joseph Musil. Musil has worked on numerous theater renovations including Disney’s El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood. The Walt Disney Company has worked with Musil for numerous Art Deco inspired projects including pieces of Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure and Tomorrowland.

If you’re unfamiliar, the basic story of “The Evil Dead” is five friends travel to a cabin in the woods where they unexpectedly release flesh-possessing demons. A sweet little story for a day or night out at the theatre.

As the show began there was what felt like a communal energy from the crowd. Although I certainly can’t prove this, it seemed as though everyone in attendance was either a die-hard fan of the film, had already seen the musical numerous times, was a horror fan in general, or just wanted to get soaked in blood. Did I forget to mention you have the option to get soaked in blood?

Audience members who purchase front row seats are in the Splash Zone. Theme Park-goers are certainly familiar with this term from places like SeaWorld or the WaterWorld stunt show at Universal Studios Hollywood. In the case of “Evil Dead the Musical” you’re not simply getting splashed with water. You’re getting splashed, rather directly splattered, with stage blood.

Each Splash Zone guest receives a white commemorative t-shirt that will be covered in red by the end of the performance. I don’t want to spoil it here, but the way in which audience members are covered in blood is often hilarious. Whether you’re the one getting covered or not, it’s a joy to watch happen. I will note that every audience member I saw getting soaked was delighted by it and had huge smiles on their faces.

If I were to use one word to describe my experience, it would be “surprised”. I was surprised by the venue itself. I was surprised by the overall production value. I was surprised by, well, the surprises.

It should be noted that the music is sung live to a music track. Don’t expect a live band of any kind at this production. Although that would have been a nice and appreciated addition, it’s understandable why it wasn’t possible in this space and with the available budget. Having said that, their budget distribution decisions were smart, making for a memorable and visually appealing production. From what I understand, some other productions at this theater have featured live musicians.

When it comes to over-the-top, campy characters and story, it’s easy to fall into a simply silly performance that isn’t believable. The detail that allows a performance to be silly yet believable is full commitment. With that in mind, I would like to make mention of Jaycob Hunter for his over-the-top yet committed performance as blood-spewing Scott, and Samantha Green who so unapologetically “ate the scenery” in the best way possible as the demon-turned Cheryl.

Overall, “Evil Dead the Musical” at Maverick Theater is an extremely fun piece of entertainment with some nice surprises along the way. This production is currently playing on select dates through May 18, 2024. General Admission is $35.00 with front row Splash Zone seats costing $55.00. Student tickets (with ID) are offered at the cost of $20.00. Many performances are sold out, so grab yours now at MaverickTheater.com before it’s too late.

Maverick Theater strives to attract non-theatre audiences by producing shows based on screenplays, pop culture and history. Future productions this season include “King Kong” and their annual holiday productions of “Night of the Living Dead” and “Santa Claus Conquers the Martians”.

Jeff DePaoli is an event producer and host living in Los Angeles. He graduated from Emerson College where he received a BFA in Theatre. He can be heard as the voice of Disney Trivia on Alexa as well as the host of “Dizney Coast to Coast” podcast, where he and his special guests share honest opinions on all things Disney. Get your FREE gifts of “America’s Hidden Mickeys,” “On the Rohde Again,” “Theme Park Comfort Kit” and more at DizneyCoastToCoast.com. DePaoli’s opinions are his own and do not necessarily represent Attractions Magazine.