Looking for laughs? This is a dead cert.

Photos by Lewis Smith

Dark comedy takes center stage when Lincoln City’s Theatre West presents “The Dead Guy,” opening on Thursday, April 30.

Directed by Lewis Smith, Eric Coble’s biting satire follows Eldon Phelps, an ordinary man whose life is transformed when a television producer offers him an outrageous bargain: one million dollars to spend in a single week, after which he must die.

What begins as a wild spree of generosity and excess soon spirals into a sharp-edged commentary on greed, voyeurism and the public appetite for spectacle. As Eldon’s every move is broadcast to a captivated audience, the play examines the human cost of turning tragedy into entertainment.

Known for its dark humor and timely themes, “The Dead Guy” offers a provocative mix of laughs and discomfort while asking what happens when morality is sacrificed for ratings.

The cast features Brandon Batson as Eldon Phelps, returning to Theatre West after appearing as Paul in the 2025 production of “Moon Over Buffalo.” He also recently performed in the live radio production of “It’s a Wonderful Life” at the Lincoln City Cultural Center. Also featured are Mary Griffith as Gina, Chandler Trotter as Dougie, Jayne Calkins as Roberta Phelps and Nancy, Cody Blake as Virgil Phelps, Marni Stone as Christy and Woman No. 1, Keith Hutchinson as the Security Guard and Leon and Naomi Fast as Woman No. 2 and Sheila.

When not directing, Smith is often seen on the Theatre West stage, including as Teddy in “Arsenic and Old Lace,” the inebriated-adjacent priest in “Harold & Maude,” Benny in “Epic Proportions” and Felix in “The Odd Couple.”

“The Dead Guy” runs through Saturday, May 23, with performances at 7:30 pm on Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 pm matinées on Sunday, May 10 and 17. Theatre West is located at 3536 SE Hwy. 101. Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, students and military and $15 for kids aged 12 and younger. For reservations, go to theatrewest.com or call 541-994-5663.