New Jersey’s thriving cultural scene is embracing its most mysterious folklore in spectacular fashion as filmmaker Kevin Smith and Weird N.J. Magazine bring the hit theatrical production The Devil & Daisy Dirt to the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center for a major, high-profile run from February 20 through February 22. This bold “Garden State Gothic” production — equal parts folk horror, bluegrass storytelling, immersive theater, and cultural tribute — represents one of the most uniquely New Jersey-centered theatrical events of the year.
Blending regional mythology, live performance, and cinematic spectacle, The Devil & Daisy Dirt has evolved from an underground phenomenon staged in unconventional venues into a full-scale performing arts experience. Its arrival at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center marks a defining moment for New Jersey theater, expanding the production’s scope while celebrating the state’s legendary Pine Barrens folklore and vibrant creative community.
The collaboration between Kevin Smith, Smodcastle Cinemas, and Weird N.J. Magazine signals a powerful cultural partnership — one that elevates local storytelling, celebrates Garden State identity, and transforms regional legend into a grand theatrical event.
A Landmark Collaboration Bringing “Garden State Gothic” to Life
The February 2026 run of The Devil & Daisy Dirt is presented under the banner “Weird NJ Presents,” a series of live events curated by Mark Moran and Mark Sceurman, the creators of Weird N.J. Magazine. Known for chronicling the state’s unusual history, paranormal lore, and hidden cultural landmarks, the publication has built a devoted following by exploring New Jersey’s strange and fascinating side.
Through this event series, the creators translate their signature style into immersive live experiences that celebrate local folklore, macabre history, and unconventional storytelling. Their partnership with Kevin Smith — one of New Jersey’s most recognizable filmmakers and cultural figures — brings additional creative energy and national attention to the production.
Smith joined the project as a presenting producer after witnessing an earlier performance at his Atlantic Highlands venue, Smodcastle Cinemas. The collaboration represents a convergence of film, theater, and independent media, reinforcing New Jersey’s growing reputation as a center for original artistic innovation.
The result is a production that functions as a “live-action love letter” to New Jersey — bold, imaginative, and deeply rooted in local culture.
From Cult Phenomenon to Major Stage Production
Before arriving at the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center, The Devil & Daisy Dirt built a devoted following through dozens of sold-out performances staged in unconventional locations across the state. The production has toured historic Pine Barrens barns, craft breweries, and independent theater spaces, transforming each venue into an atmospheric storytelling environment.
These intimate performances helped shape the show’s identity, establishing it as a grassroots cultural phenomenon that resonates with audiences drawn to New Jersey’s folklore and regional storytelling traditions.
The New Brunswick run represents the production’s most ambitious presentation to date. With a larger budget and expanded technical capabilities, this staging features upgraded set design, immersive projections, enhanced visual effects, and refined creature puppetry that elevate the theatrical experience to new heights.
A Story Born in the Pine Barrens
At the heart of The Devil & Daisy Dirt is a distinctly New Jersey narrative inspired by the enduring legend of the Jersey Devil. Set within the mysterious Pine Barrens — one of the state’s most mythic landscapes — the production reimagines the famous cryptid through a deeply human story of friendship, fear, and protection.
The story follows Daisy Dirt, a diner waitress working in a Pine Barrens eatery inspired by Lucille’s Luncheonette. Her ordinary life takes an extraordinary turn when she discovers a wounded winged creature behind a dumpster — a creature she recognizes as the Jersey Devil.
Rather than recoiling in fear, Daisy forms an unexpected bond with the mythical being and risks everything to protect it from a menacing poacher known as “Tasty Murder.” The narrative explores themes of compassion, environmental preservation, and the conflict between myth and modern life.
Critics and audiences have described the production as a Pine Barrens reimagining of classic American storytelling — blending humor, suspense, and emotional depth into a haunting yet heartfelt theatrical experience.
The Spectacle of the Jersey Devil
One of the production’s most striking features is its breathtaking stagecraft. The Jersey Devil itself is portrayed by an eight-foot-tall wearable puppet created by special effects artist Dan Diana, whose work includes contributions to major Hollywood productions.
The creature’s presence on stage delivers a sense of cinematic realism rarely seen in live theater. Its scale, movement, and expressive design create an unforgettable visual centerpiece that enhances the show’s emotional and narrative impact.
This fusion of advanced special effects and live performance underscores the production’s ambition to push the boundaries of contemporary theater.
A Bluegrass Folk Horror Soundscape
Music plays a central role in shaping the atmosphere of The Devil & Daisy Dirt. The production features an original score by Jersey Shore musician Arlan Feiles, whose dark Americana and bluegrass compositions provide the emotional backbone of the performance.
Performed live during the show, the music captures what creators describe as the “high lonesome” sound of the Pine Barrens — a haunting sonic landscape that reinforces the production’s themes of wilderness, isolation, and mystery.
The result is a theatrical experience that feels both intimate and epic, blending storytelling, music, and performance into a cohesive artistic vision.
Creative Vision and Cultural Expertise
The production was written, directed, and narrated by Alex Dawson, a Rutgers University creative writing professor and folklore expert. Dawson’s academic background in storytelling and regional myth informs the show’s narrative structure, ensuring that the production remains grounded in authentic cultural tradition while embracing imaginative theatrical expression.
This fusion of scholarly insight and creative innovation gives the production both intellectual depth and broad audience appeal.
The collaboration between Dawson, Diana, Smith, and the Weird N.J. team demonstrates the strength of New Jersey’s interdisciplinary arts community — where educators, filmmakers, performers, and cultural historians work together to create original work rooted in local identity.
An Immersive Event Experience
“Weird NJ Presents” events are designed to extend beyond traditional theater performances, offering audiences an immersive cultural experience that celebrates New Jersey’s unique character.
Attendees may encounter themed activities such as Jersey Devil trivia contests, exclusive merchandise, and interactive storytelling elements that deepen audience engagement. These events often include partnerships with local businesses and community organizations, further strengthening the production’s connection to regional culture.
The experience is intentionally crafted to feel communal and celebratory — an exploration of New Jersey’s folklore through shared participation.
Environmental Impact and Community Support
The production also supports environmental preservation efforts tied to the Pine Barrens, the legendary habitat of the Jersey Devil. A portion of proceeds from performances is donated to the Pinelands Preservation Alliance, reinforcing the show’s connection to environmental stewardship.
This charitable component reflects the production’s broader themes of protecting wilderness and respecting the fragile ecosystems that inspire regional mythology.
By linking folklore to conservation, the production demonstrates how storytelling can promote environmental awareness and community responsibility.
New Brunswick Performing Arts Center as a Cultural Destination
The New Brunswick Performing Arts Center continues to establish itself as a premier venue for groundbreaking performances and innovative productions. Located in the heart of one of New Jersey’s most vibrant cultural districts, the venue serves as a hub for theater, music, and artistic expression.
Hosting The Devil & Daisy Dirt further strengthens the center’s role in showcasing original work that celebrates regional identity and artistic innovation. The production’s arrival underscores New Brunswick’s growing reputation as a destination for cultural tourism and creative excellence.
Elevating New Jersey’s Theatrical Identity
The success of The Devil & Daisy Dirt reflects a broader movement within New Jersey’s performing arts landscape — one that prioritizes locally inspired storytelling, interdisciplinary collaboration, and immersive audience experiences.
By embracing regional folklore and cultural history, productions like this help define a distinctly New Jersey theatrical voice. The show demonstrates how local legend can be transformed into compelling contemporary art, resonating with audiences both within and beyond the state.
A Must-See Cultural Event of the Season
From February 20 through February 22, audiences attending the New Brunswick Performing Arts Center will experience a production that merges folklore, music, spectacle, and storytelling into a powerful theatrical journey.
The Devil & Daisy Dirt captures the spirit of the Garden State — mysterious, imaginative, and deeply rooted in place. Through its bold creative vision and unmistakable New Jersey identity, the production transforms the legend of the Jersey Devil into an unforgettable cultural experience.
For theater enthusiasts, folklore fans, and anyone seeking a uniquely immersive performance, this landmark collaboration between Kevin Smith, Weird N.J., and New Jersey’s creative community offers a rare opportunity to witness a homegrown theatrical phenomenon at its most ambitious scale.
