As the crisp autumn air descends upon Pittsburgh, a different kind of magic fills the city: Halloween! Beyond the traditional haunts and pumpkin patches, the Steel City’s arts scene awakens with an array of performances to celebrate the spooky season. Spine-tingling scores set a gothic mood to captivating choreography that brings legendary tales to life as Pittsburgh’s stages offer a thrilling escape for those seeking to be enchanted. Whether you love to haunting melodies or dramatic storytelling, there are plenty of theatrical and musical events waiting to cast a unique spell on you this Halloween.

Pittsburgh Halloween Concerts and Performances

Evil Dead The Musical

September 26-October 25, West End Canopy

You’ve seen the movies, now see the musical adaptation of all three Evil Dead movies in one fantastic, bloody explosion. This hilarious show follows Ash, your average housewares salesman who is now hunting down demons. Laugh along to songs like All the Men in My Life Keep Getting Killed by Candarian Demons and What the F**k Was That? as you comfort yourself with the spookier side of Halloween. Just be cautious, there is a splash zone and you will get wet if you so dare!

The Rocky Horror Show

October 14-November 8, Greer Cabaret Theater

Before there was The Rocky Horror Picture Show movie, there was The Rocky Horror Show musical. See this cult classic come to life right before your eyes as Dr. Frank-N-Furter lures good kids Brad and Janet into a world of aliens, cannibalism, and sex alongside his special (and slightly strange) colleagues. Be ready to do the Time Warp and be seduced from start to finish as the Pittsburgh CLO honors this famous musical. 

Boo’s Halloween House Party

October 16-26, Pittsburgh Playhouse

Point Park alumnus Ahmad Simmons and Lazlo Graves create a family-friendly Halloween musical bash that’ll have all ages happy to head to the theater. This adventure features all your favorite creatures in an exciting and entertaining production. You’ll hum and dance along in your seat as stunning costumes and fantastic vocals take the stage. 

Candlelight: A Haunted Evening of Halloween Classics

October 24, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral

Immerse yourself in a gothic daydream inside the gorgeous Trinity Episcopal Cathedral. The crew lines the entire church with real candles to light up an enchanting string quartet. Take a seat and relax to all your favorite Halloween hits. Hear tunes such as songs from The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, horror movie themes, and famous orchestral pieces that leave a haunting tone in your evening. 

Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas

October 25-26, Heinz Hall

If your child or even yourself are lovers of The Nightmare Before Christmas, then you need to experience the track in person with a live orchestra. The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra presents the film The Nightmare Before Christmas alongside their beautiful live music soundtrack. Watch this Halloween classic in an unforgettable way that not only is magical for children but is enjoyable for the adults too. 

Halloween Concert

October 31, Heinz Chapel

Step into the Phantom’s secret candlelit lair inside Heinz Chapel for a haunting night of music from Heinz Chapel Organist, Jon Tyillian along with guest singers Sarah Nadler and Logan Newman. Not only will you hear selections from films like The Phantom of the Opera but you’ll also feel the tingling undertones of Toccata and Fugue by Bach. It’s a way to dive into the Halloween spirit in a peaceful setting. 

Michael Pink’s Dracula 

October 31-November 2, Benedum Center

You may know Dracula on the big screen but do you know him in Michael Pink’s ballet? This version of Dracula is an enchanting, sexy, and eerie ballet of the classic story you know and love. Pittsburgh Ballet Theater pairs a wonderful score from Philip Feeney with special effects that transport you straight to Transylvania. You’ll find yourself lost in the smooth moves and captive expressions of these evocative dancers. 

Story by Kylie Thomas
Photo Courtesy of Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre

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