The live theatre phenomenon Paranormal Activity has returned to London's West End, just in time for a Halloween run that promises a deliciously chilling night out. Based on the movie series by Levi Holloway and directed by Felix Barratt, known for his work with Punchdrunk, the production delivers an enjoyably tense experience complete with jump scares and classy special effects.
The show, which has earned a 4 out of 5 star rating, is set in London and centers on middle-class American couple James (Ty Fanning) and Lou (Ami Okumura Jones). They live in stylish comfort in one of the capital's leafier areas, dealing with the same mundane work calls and dinner discussions as anyone else. However, Lou is taking medication for anxiety and dread stemming from a breakdown in Chicago, and there is something unsettling about James's tight relationship with his Bible-thumping mother Carolanne (Pippa Winslow).
A Domestic Setting Turned Terrifying
Much of the best horror is rooted in the domestic, with the uncanny introduced into familiar settings, and this production follows that tradition. Fly Davis's acutely observed set of a bisected two-storey house, coupled with Chris Fisher's illusions, springs surprises as the couple find themselves increasingly barricaded into what should be their safe home, terrorised by dangers lurking both inside and out.
The motto of paranormal podcaster Etheline (Kirsty Bushell) is that places aren't haunted—people are. Sure enough, the source of the malevolent presence turns out to be rooted in Lou and James's very personal stories, adding a psychological depth to the horror.
Two Hours of Tension and Terror
The two-hour run time includes plenty of horror set pieces, from Etheline's candlelit seance to James's breathless room-by-room torchlit search for whatever is haunting the house. In the intimate Ambassadors Theatre, each carefully timed sound or lighting effect, underpinned by an unsettling low hum, is designed to ratchet up the tension while never forgetting to play on our most primal fears.
Jones and Fanning throw themselves into the emotional wringer, and the audience rides along with them. The production is a thoroughly satisfying fright night for those who love a scare, with the intimate venue enhancing the immersive experience.
Run Details and Age Advisory
Paranormal Activity runs at the Ambassadors Theatre in the West End until February 2027, with a 15+ age advisory. The show's return offers a timely opportunity for theatregoers to enjoy a spooky outing during the Halloween season, and its extended run ensures ample chances to catch the live adaptation of the popular film series.
