‘Paranormal Activity’ Takes a Bold Leap to the Stage

The world premiere of the stage adaptation of the iconic horror film Paranormal Activity is set to deliver a unique theatrical experience. Felix Barrett, acclaimed director, and Levi Holloway, celebrated playwright, are the creative forces behind this ambitious project, currently in its final preparation stages at Leeds Playhouse.

Speaking to The BBC, the duo revealed that they juggle the demands of parenthood with their creative responsibilities, sharing a bond over sleepless nights. “The only paranormal activity I know is at 03:30 with the cry for milk,” Barrett quips, referring to his newborn’s night-time feeds. Holloway, equally bleary-eyed, concurs, “We’re both very haunted,” he adds with a wry smile.

Despite their nocturnal challenges, Barrett and Holloway are deeply committed to transforming the chilling essence of Paranormal Activity into a compelling stage production. The original 2009 film, famous for its “found footage” style, terrified audiences worldwide by depicting the harrowing experiences of a young couple, Katie and Micah, as they confronted sinister forces in their home. Produced on a modest budget of $15,000 (£8,000), the film grossed an astonishing $193 million (£125 million) and sparked a franchise that earned an additional $700 million (£435 million).

However, theatre-goers should not expect a mere replication of the film. “It’s wildly different from the film,” Holloway reveals, while Barrett elaborates, “It takes its essence. The events are different, but the texture and quality are very much inspired by the film because it’s very effective. If people love ‘Paranormal Activity’, then they’ll bond with this for sure.”

Details about the stage adaptation are being closely guarded. The Leeds Playhouse website intriguingly lists only Barrett and Holloway’s names, with a cryptic note: “We can’t say anything else.” However, it does promise elements like “loud noises, sudden darkness, blood, and gore with references to mental health,” ensuring the theatrical experience retains the chilling atmosphere of the original film.

The production diverges from the film by introducing a new couple rather than reprising Katie and Micah’s characters. Barrett confirms, “It’s a different couple… an American couple who have moved to London, and they’ve brought something with them.” Holloway adds that the cast consists of four members, maintaining an intimate, claustrophobic setting similar to the film.

Barrett, known for his innovative approach to theatre with Punchdrunk, where performances unfold in unconventional spaces, explains his decision to work within a traditional theatre setting for this production. “The simplicity of seeing the story on stage is what drove me to do it. The actual narrative, and the tendrils of that, will creep out from the stage and grab the audience,” he says.

While horror remains a popular genre in cinema, its presence on stage has been growing. Holloway attributes this to the genre’s ability to allow audiences to confront existential fears in a communal, safe environment. “Good horror bonds us,” he states. Barrett echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the cathartic nature of horror. “The world’s become a frightening place… we need to feel those peaks of emotion.”

The original film’s convincing terror, partly due to its “found footage” style, will not be replicated with screens and cameras on stage. Barrett believes that such techniques can be alienating for theatre audiences. Instead, the production aims to draw viewers in intimately, creating an experience that is both immersive and intense.

As Barrett and Holloway prepare for the opening, they reflect on the importance of delivering a powerful, emotional experience. “We need to be able to feel frightened safely so that we can move forwards,” Barrett concludes.

Paranormal Activity is showing at Leeds Playhouse until 3 August, promising to bring a fresh and thrilling horror experience to the stage.