PARANORMAL ACTIVITY @ Shakespeare Theatre DC

[JT2030]

Posted: 2/4/26 at 5:48pm

Echoing some posts from other cities + many of the critics' reviews - the play is a blast. Went with some friends to the D.C. stop of the tour last Sunday evening and laughed and screamed with a very engaged and full house. (Also had never been to Harman Hall at STC - lovely venue with great sightlines and lots of nice pre-show and intermission spots to lounge.)

As has been written - the show really doesn't need to be called Paranormal Activity as it doesn't pull any elements beyond vibes from the films. But Felix Barrett and Levi Holloway have devised a wickedly creative haunted experience that has some truly jaw-dropping illusions (and yes, I also am stuck on the last 3 minutes of the show and how they pulled that off - happy to provide spoilers over PM.) 

Yes, the script isn't complex but I was quite forgiving of it thanks to the terrific quartet of lead performances and how every design element melded flawlessly over the 2-hour runtime.

If you're in DC, do catch it - limited tix are still avail at box office or online, and TodayTix has a digital rush. Def try to sit more toward center and not too close to the stage to appreciate the gorgeous 2-story set.

I'd imagine it'll land in New York at some point, though I'm not sure what venue would be ideal for it -- if they economics of it worked for Off-Broadway, could see it perhaps finally being a success at Stage 42 or one of the larger New World Stages. Anyway, if it's in a city near you (I think San Francisco is next?), strong recommend.

[inlovewithjerryherman]

Posted: 2/4/26 at 6:02pm

Saw it as well last weekend at the Saturday matinee, and could not agree more. Spooky as all heck and VERY fun. The stagecraft is exceptional with plenty of "how did they do that" moments, and the tension leads to genuinely effective jump scares throughout. The two leads, Travis Knight and Cher Alvarez, are doing exceptional work. Hope it makes it to New York!

[RippedMan]

Posted: 2/4/26 at 6:16pm

Loved it in Chicago. I thought the transitions between scenes were a little long (maybe that's specific to Chicago) but I still really enjoyed it.

[spicemonkey]

Posted: 2/4/26 at 6:27pm

I almost bought a ticket for the DC run (Todaytix had $45 for front row Mezz for a Friday night performance) but eventually gave it up.

 

Hopefully it comes to NYC! 

[A.J.]

Posted: 2/4/26 at 7:04pm

Mirvish started teasing a Toronto transfer on Monday with this clip, although it’s now been pulled down from their socials: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQ4cEIkDEqy/

[BoringBoredBoard40]

Posted: 2/4/26 at 9:46pm

there is a broadway run planned with two names for the fall

 

 

[Shoreline Star]

Posted: 2/11/26 at 11:47am

Any idea if this will be a limited run in the fall?

[jimmycurry01]

Posted: 2/11/26 at 12:43pm

This also played at Chicago Shakes early this season or late last season. I did not make the trip up to see it, but I understand it was well received. I am very curious about it, as I understand the staging was quite impressive.