A Malaysian musical about work-life balance, and…. Zombies?

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Stuck in a dead-end job? Feeling like a zombie at work?

Make it literal, add a bunch of catchy songs, and you have The Working Dead.

The Working Dead: Work-life balance and zombies

Presented by KULT Productions, The Working Dead tells the completely relatable story of Edwin, a hardworking company man just trying to support himself and his wife. His overbearing boss, Chan, however, constantly overworks him and his colleagues.

When Edwin unexpectedly dies on the job, Chan hires a corporate bomoh to revive him as a zombie to continue working.

Like we said, completely relatable… unless you happen to be a boss like Chan.

First staged in 2019, the proudly all-Malaysian made musical features over 20 catchy songs influenced by various genres, performed LIVE by a five-piece band. Onstage, the show is brought to life by 12 talented performers, including Kebaya Jazz Queen Ida Mariana.

Office-bound by day, writer and producer Terence Toh may have come across a limitless pool of inspiration for his musical:

“The Working Dead may have premiered in 2019 but so many of its themes continue to resonate today. Many of us get caught up with hustle culture: we’re constantly pressured to be productive, just to keep up with societal demands.

We ignore our own wellbeing and time spent with our loved ones, in the pursuit of our paychecks. We think all these sacrifices will pay off in the long run…but will they really?

Hopefully, the musical serves as a reminder that no matter your life choices, it’s never too late to awaken from a dead-end job just to pay the bills, rediscover your passions, and fight for a life filled with purpose and joy”
– Terence Toh

The production is also supported by the Dignity Foundation, a non-governmental organization providing holistic care and education for marginalised and urban poor children in Kuala Lumpur. Part of the musical’s profits will be channelled towards the Foundation.

Several young people from the foundation will also be making their professional stage debut as performers during the show. Various departments of the foundation will be actively contributing to other parts of the production, including the hair, costume, set building, catering, front of house and stage management departments.