"Paranormal Activity": Don't Go In There

By Darlene Donloe

I’m not one to gossip, so you didn’t hear from me – but something terrifying is going on at the Ahmanson Theatre in downtown Los Angeles. 

Things disappear, there’s creepy noises, doors open and shut on their own, lots of scary music, stuff is flying off the wall – and that’s only for starters. 

This is "Paranormal Activity" live on stage at the Ahmanson. 

This terrifying new play, written by Levi Holloway and directed by Felix Barrett, is an original story set in the world of the iconic film franchise. 

The story, which opens in present day, London, follows James and Lou, a couple who move from Chicago to London to escape their past, only to discover that places aren't haunted, people are.

As they settle into their new home, they soon realize that they're not alone, and the haunting they've been trying to escape is a part of them. 

Holloway, known for his Tony Award-nominated play "Grey House," and Barrett, founder of Punchdrunk, have joined forces to create an unforgettable experience. 

"Writing Paranormal Activity for the stage, collaborating with Felix Barrett in London—working to create an actual nightmare—has been a dream," Holloway said.

 

(l-r) Cher Álvarez and Patrick Heusinger

The production features breathtaking illusions by Tony Award-winner Chris Fisher, and a talented cast, including the leads Patrick Heusinger (James) and Cher Álvarez (Lou), who both give fantastic performances. Shannon Cochran, who plays James's mother, and Kate Fry, who plays a spiritual advisor named Etheline Cotgrave, are both outstanding. 

The nothing-short-of-incredible set design by Fly Davis is a two-story, hyper-realistic dollhouse that will make you feel like you're right inside the haunted home. 

Critics are raving about the show, praising its ability to blend heart and horror and create an immersive experience that will leave you gasping and screaming. 

As he was exiting the theater, one audience member was heard saying, “At one point, I actually had goosebumps.’ 

Kudos to everyone involved in this production. It’s a must-see. 

Rated R for disturbing content and horror. 

On the DONLOE SCALE: D (don’t bother), O (oh, no), N (needs work), L (likeable), O (oh, yeah), and E (excellent), “Paranormal Activity” gets an E (excellent). 

"Paranormal Activity," Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, 7:30 p.m. Tues-Thur., 8 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturdays, 1 and 7 p.m. Sundays, no Sunday evening performance on Dec. 7, special 2 p.m. Wednesday matinee, November 26, special 2 p.m. Thursday matinee, December 5, through December 7, 2025, 213 628-2772.