We recently had the chance to see Paranormal Activity on stage in London, and let me tell you, it was an intense, thrilling experience that left me questioning everything I thought I knew about horror theatre. Instead of watching the movies on a screen at home, why not get yourself down to the Ambassador Theatre in London and live it as this one show worth seeing on the big stage.
Whilst most plays build suspense Paranormal Activity throws you straight into that sense of dread and tension plunging the audience straight into the heart of the story within the first five minutes, the story picked up quickly and no prior knowledge of the films is needed which gives the show a much wider appeal.
The use of screens and CCTV footage was a smart choice, allowing the audience to see things happening off-stage or in different rooms, which only heightened the feeling that something was lurking just outside our view.
The first major shock moment came early, when Lou, the main character, stepped out of the kitchen to help cook, only to appear upstairs moments later while the figure remained in the kitchen. Then, in an eerie moment, her robe fell to the floor as if something invisible had snatched it away. This clever manipulation of space kept us on edge.
A fun addition to the show was the humour, which struck a perfect balance between being relatable and adding a bit of levity to break the tension. The cast used British and American cultural differences in their interactions, adding a layer of charm and familiarity that made the horror elements even more unsettling by contrast.
Set design was minimal but effective and as you’re very much focused on set throughout the show but with the addition of effects and tension one set was all you really needed.
The second half of the show took things to a whole new level. The tension in the air was palpable, and you could feel the collective unease from the audience. Every breath, every sigh was amplified as the supernatural occurrences started to intensify.
Possession scenes and the changing of Lou’s behaviour became more and more unsettling and as the story reached its climax, it became clear that the malevolent force tormenting the characters wasn’t what it initially seemed.
Now, let’s talk about that ending! Without spoiling too much, I’ll just say that the twist took me by surprise and the audience is going to live it!
The illusions and clever tricks lend a hand towards a frightfully good show, it’s enthralling and heart-pounding in equal measure.
Effective storytelling and practical effects come together for this London stage show succeeding in sending shivers down your spine!
