Paranormal Activity Play Brings Horror Film Thrills to Bay Area

Acclaimed illusionist Chris Fisher leads the creative team bringing the found-footage franchise to the stage.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A new theatrical production based on the popular 'Paranormal Activity' horror film franchise is headed to San Francisco's American Conservatory Theater, running from February 19 to March 22. Led by acclaimed illusionist Chris Fisher, the play features all-new scares and jump moments inspired by the original movies, though it tells an original story set within the 'Paranormal Activity' universe. The creative team worked closely to translate the found-footage format to the live stage, utilizing techniques like misdirection and restraint to build suspense and deliver chilling moments.

Why it matters

The 'Paranormal Activity' films have developed a devoted fanbase since the first movie's surprise blockbuster success in 2007. Bringing this popular horror franchise to the stage represents an opportunity to introduce the thrills to a new audience, while also providing existing fans a fresh way to experience the paranormal scares they love.

The details

The play is an original story set within the 'Paranormal Activity' universe, rather than a direct adaptation of any of the films. Led by UK-based illusionist Chris Fisher, the creative team - which also includes Chicago playwright Levi Holloway and director Felix Barrett - worked to translate the found-footage format to the live stage, utilizing techniques like misdirection and restraint to build suspense. While the CCTV camera aspect of the films didn't translate well, the team found ways to use the cast to direct the audience's attention and deliver impactful jump scares.

  • The play premiered at the Courtyard Theatre at Leeds Playhouse in August 2024.
  • The production later transferred to London's West End, where it is currently being shown at the Ambassadors Theatre.
  • The U.S. tour launched in October, with stops in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington D.C. before arriving in San Francisco.

The players

Chris Fisher

A UK-based illusionist who has thrilled audiences with his work on popular plays like 'Back to the Future' and 'Harry Potter & The Cursed Child'. He led the creative team in bringing the 'Paranormal Activity' play to life.

Levi Holloway

A Chicago-based playwright known for the Broadway play 'Grey House', who collaborated with Fisher and director Felix Barrett on the 'Paranormal Activity' stage production.

Felix Barrett

The director of the 'Paranormal Activity' play, hailing from the British theater company Punchdrunk.

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What they’re saying

“It's one of the most collaborative projects I have worked on in a long time. What was brilliant about this show — and it's happening more and more these days — was the opportunity to come in on something right from the very start, before there was a design or anything. That was a massive draw.”

— Chris Fisher (marinij.com)

“Timing was really critical. Creating a good jump scare is all about timing and when you do it and catching people unaware.”

— Chris Fisher (marinij.com)

What’s next

The play will continue its U.S. tour after the San Francisco run, with upcoming stops in New York City and Boston.

The takeaway

By translating the found-footage horror of 'Paranormal Activity' to the live stage, the creative team has found a way to introduce this popular franchise to new audiences while also providing existing fans a fresh and immersive way to experience the paranormal thrills they love.