Fear is a universal emotion we strangely love to experience.
Prepare for a Night of Terror
I am not sure whose idea it was to bring the horrifying world of Paranormal Activity to the stage, but I suppose I can appreciate the twisted thought that went into it. The Shakespeare Theatre Company is hosting this North American premiere, transforming a night out in Washington DC into a psychological endurance test that promises to be the year’s most frightening event. Written by Levi Holloway (Tony Award-nominated Grey House) and directed by the visionary Felix Barrett (Sleep No More), this performance promises to be a “jaw-dropping” experience that lingers long after the lights go out! This production brings the psychological chills to Washington DC, offering a level of craft that critics are calling “truly scary.”
Immersive Storytelling that Grips
James and Lou move from Chicago to London to escape their past, but an original story unfolds that proves you cannot run from everything. Unlike the famous Paranormal Activity films where you can cover your eyes or turn down the volume, Harman Hall will provide an environment where the terror feels immediate. Critics from the Chicago Tribune to the LA Times have hailed this as a “lesson in live, minimalist terror” and potentially the year’s best-staged production. I will personally be afraid, but as long as you are with me in the audience, I think we can get through this together.
Top Tier Talent Takes the Stage
The talent assembled for this production ensures it ascends beyond simple jump scares into high art. The cast features heavy hitters like Cher Álvarez, Shannon Cochran, Kate Fry, and Patrick Heusinger, bringing depth to a genre often overlooked in theater. With Felix Barrett—whose work on Sleep No More defined immersive theater for a record-breaking 14-year run—at the helm, the craftsmanship is undeniable. This is a rare chance to see a Tony Award-nominated writer and a pioneering director collaborate on a project that will chill you to the bone.
Secure Your Seats Before They Vanish
Running for a strictly limited engagement from January 28 through February 7, 2026, this is a unique opportunity to see a horror masterpiece live. Whether you are looking for a thrilling date night or an unforgettable evening with friends, grab your tickets now because availability is already shifting to “sold out” pretty quickly!
Visit the Shakespeare Theatre Company website immediately to secure your seats for Paranormal Activity on stage before it is too late! You have been warned—this is an experience that will follow you home!
