The new stage production of "Paranormal Activity," which opened Tuesday at the August Wilson Theatre, is being lauded for its successful execution of the horror genre on Broadway. The play, penned by Levi Holloway and directed by Felix Barrett, aims to evoke genuine dread and has been noted for its ability to create a palpable sense of terror that resonates with the audience.
The production features Travis A. Knight as James and Cher Álvarez as Lou, a couple who have relocated from Chicago to London. As strange occurrences begin to plague their new home, the play delves into familiar paranormal tropes with unexpected twists. Despite the familiar title, the story is an original narrative, not a direct adaptation of any of the film series.
Reviewers have highlighted the show's effectiveness in building tension, with director Felix Barrett, known for his work on "Sleep No More," skillfully conjuring a mood of suspense. The set design by Fly Davis is described as a character in itself, a decaying yet modern house that contributes significantly to the unsettling atmosphere. Elements like flickering lights, unexplained knocks, and shadowy figures are employed to create a disquieting environment.
SOUND AND EFFECTS The tactile effects and sound design by Gareth Fry are noted for their impact, contributing to the immersive experience. Anna Watson's lighting design further enhances the sense of entrapment. The play's mantra, "Places aren’t haunted — people are," underscores its focus on psychological terror over overt supernatural events.
ACTORS' PERFORMANCE Álvarez and Knight have been commended for their performances, bringing humor and chemistry to their roles that elevate the stakes of their characters' peril. Shannon Cochran also appears as James' mother, Carolanne. However, the character of Etheline, a spiritual medium and podcaster played by Eva Kaminsky, has been noted as potentially breaking the tension with a performance described as too campy.
Overall, "Paranormal Activity" is seen as a welcome addition to the Broadway landscape, offering a level of audience engagement and consistent tension rarely achieved in live theater. The production successfully captures the "always-on-edge" sensation characteristic of effective horror, suggesting a broader potential for the genre on stage.