Zombie Talent Show

Check out local undead performers using their brrraaaiiinnnsss.

by Sherri Hospedales

[ events ]

If Victorian literature doesn't get you excited about writing, maybe zombies will do the trick.

Inspired by this year's Quirk Books bestseller Pride and Prejudice and Zombies — a mash-up of the Jane Austen classic and centuries-old legends about the monsters — the Spells Writing Center is hosting an undead-themed fundraiser. Caroline Tiger, head of development at Spells, hopes the offbeat party will inspire young people to take to the pen.

"Getting kids excited about writing at an early age is important," says Tiger. "We just want to make writing fun."

At this 21-and-up event, local thespians will bring three scenes from Pride and Prejudice and Zombies to life, and the staff will provide themed prizes for writing contests. Other scheduled acts include a zombie PowerPoint, a zombie-flavored performance of Bon Jovi's "Wanted Dead or Alive" and an exhibit of artist Joe Game's artwork (pictured).

Oh, and if you're cooking up reanimated cookies or a Night of the Living Dead spoof but haven't registered yet, worry not, aspiring zombie — walk-ins are welcome.

Tue., June 2, 7:30-11 p.m., $15-$45, L'Etage, Sixth and Bainbridge streets, 215-592-0656, phillyspells.org.