Decker Sadowski from “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and Shane West from “ER” and “The Dirty South” are set to headline Katherine Dudas’ horror/comedy, “Theater Is Dead.” The movie, also penned by Dudas along with Sadowski, Olivia Blue, and Madison Lawlor, recently wrapped up filming on Vashon Island, Washington.
Joining Sadowski and West are Olivia Blue, Madison Lawlor, Jacob Nichols, Stephanie Suganami, Colin McCalla, Dylan Adler, Tammy Tavares, and Julie Wittner.
“Theater Is Dead” draws inspiration from the prevalent issue of artists being exploited by their mentors, exploring the transformation of trauma into female rage. The plot revolves around Willow (Sadowski), an isolated island resident, who encounters the enigmatic theater director Matthew Malvaggio (West).
As Willow auditions for Matthew’s play, a modern adaptation of Sophocles’ Greek tragedy “Women of Trachis,” she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, navigating dangers while pursuing her dreams.
Katherine Dudas explained, “Horror/comedy was the perfect choice for this story as it merges the empowering, feminist message with the proper stakes. Both genres build up tension and release, offering the ideal narrative tools for our tale of an artist’s evolution.”
Sadowski reflected on her Hollywood journey, stating, “Our film explores facing demons, both literal and metaphorical, drawn from our experiences with exploitative mentors. Embracing the dark absurdity and hilarity of truth, we crafted a story that resonated with our shared struggles.”
Produced by a team including Dudas, Sadowski, Blue, Lawlor, Nichols, West, and Juan Mas, “Theater Is Dead” promises to blend horror and humor to deliver a captivating cinematic experience.
