Theatre
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Everything you need to know about Paranormal Activity in the West End
As the spooky hit returns to the stage, here’s all the information you need
By popular demand, Paranormal Activity returns to the Ambassador’s Theatre even after two extensions to its original run. What has audiences coming back time and time again? Bone-chilling fear, naturally.
Based on the hit films, the new play brings the terrifying haunted house franchise to London, staging a brand-new story packed full of effects designed to terrify. Think you can handle it? Here’s everything you need to know about Paranormal Activity as it returns to the West End.
Which theatre is Paranormal Activity playing at?
Paranormal Activity is playing at London’s Ambassador’s Theatre, in the heart of Theatreland.
When is Paranormal Activity on in London?
The show will open on 11 August, booking through to 7 November.
Who’s in the cast?
Ty Fanning and Ami Okumara Jones star as newlyweds James and Lou. Fanning makes his West End debut in the role, whilst Jones is best known for originating the role of Satsuki in the RSC’s My Neighbour Totoro. Kirsty Bushell (An Inspector Calls) plays Etheline, whilst Pippa Winslow (The Crown) returns as Carolanne.
When did Paranormal Activity last play in the West End?
The show had its first West End run at the Ambassador’s Theatre beginning 5 December, and was originally scheduled for a 12-week limited run. It was extended through 28 March 2026 due to popular demand, and then again through 25 April 2026.
This September, the show will also begin a UK and Ireland tour.
Who wrote Paranormal Activity?
The play is written by US playwright and actor Levi Holloway, who previously penned Broadway thriller Grey House.
Who’s on the creative team?
The show features set and costume design by Fly Davis, illusion design by Chris Fisher, video design by Luke Halls, lighting design by Anna Watson, sound design by Gareth Fry, and casting by Stuart Burt CDG and Ginny Schiller CDG.
What do I need to know from the films?
Whilst the new play is set in the same world as the film franchise, it follows two new characters and tells an entirely new story. However, the scares of the original films – particularly those caused by malevolent poltergeist Tobi – are present in full force. You don’t need to have seen any of the Paranormal Activity films to enjoy the play – and to be properly terrified.
What’s the play about?
The stage adaptation follows young newlywed couple James and Lou, who move from Chicago to London to get a fresh start and escape their past. However, they soon discover that the supernatural entity who has been tormenting them has followed them to their new home. The two will have to work through the problems in their marriage and figure out how to face the demon together.
How scary is Paranormal Activity?
This is a genuinely frightening theatrical experience that uses impressive, cutting-edge stagecraft and special effects to draw the audience into the production’s terrifying world. Unlike the films, the play brings the audience into the haunted house, placing them closer to the chilling action than ever.
Why should I see it?
If you’re after a truly unforgettably night at the theatre, Paranormal Activity is an experience that will stay with you. Technically and visually astonishing – and spine-tinglingly gripping – there’s a reason why its West End run has been extended time and time again. Fans of the film series will find plenty of scares here, and it’s a perfect entry point to the franchise for newcomers. Just be warned that you’ll probably be sleeping with the lights on for a while…
