So I wrote this play about Zombies and Reality TV, combining that putrid and terrifying sign of the apocalypse with my love of the undead. It’s a short parody of several popular TV shows, re-imagined in a zombie-filled universe where humanity survives by sheer force of narcissism. The show is called “TMZ TV” (which will probably get me sued by the noble organization of the same name) and is part of Madair Production’s Project Playwright IV, appearing this week at the Access Theatre in New York City. It features briefs scenes with titles like “American Zombie,” “Top Zombie” and “So You Think You’re a Zombie.”
“What an original idea,” I thought. “What a poetic and groundbreaking combination of elements that will finally bring my career to the next level. I am like the Thomas Edison of 10-minute plays.”
Wrong. I am a hack. Here is why:
THE SHOW ALREADY EXISTS.
THERE ARE FIVE EPISODES.
What the fuck man?! I mean really, how deep to I have to dig before I break new ground? How far do I have to go to shock people?
Whatever, I’m calling it now: my next pop-culture mash-up project…
Cooking competitions and sexual abuse. Bring it VH1.
Bring it.