Paranormal Activity Review (Leeds Playhouse (Courtyard))

03 August 2024 I 19:30 I Leeds Playhouse (Courtyard)

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Paranormal Activity prides itself as one of the most illusive theatre events of recent years, where my review will disclose little about the play out of respect for the productions future. I walked into Leeds Playhouse with a terrified disposition, but I hadn't jumped out of my skin with fear by final scenes. The psychological thrill takes importance in this adaptation of the infamous film series, forcing us to question everything we've just seen.

I have been fortunate to see Chris Fisher's illusion design a few times this summer, yet his special effects never cease to remain unexplainable. An example of such is one of my all time favourite moments in a theatre. Ever. The kind that slams your jaw to the floor in amazement. Nearing the end of Act One, I was itching for the interval so I could talk about it! Objects move by their own accord, performers multiply and disappear. The impossible is right in front of you, and it guarantees to haunt your mind for a long time.

Premiering inside Leeds Playhouse's Courtyard space (with an approximate 400 seat capacity), Fly Davis' set is claustrophobic upon a smaller stage, condensing the environment to heighten tension in an expected place of comfort. I would say that a studio style space lowered my expectations, but when that curtain lifts, Davis' vision is immaculate.

It is important to mention Luke Halls' video design upon a television screen, utilising pre- recorded footage that makes your skin crawl. This gives a second dimension to the horror, the potential to be targeted through another medium. Limiting the details, these brief moments raise so many gasps and whispers from viewers. Other times, it can serve as a small detail to distract from the upcoming trick.

As presumed with a theatrical thriller, silence is a common feature. Though when Gareth Fry designs sound, the intention is to involve audiences inside an atmosphere. It isn't afraid to challenge audible regularity. To get loud and be the aggressor, stimulating our senses. Additionally to voice over, sound design has the ability to victimise us, not just the characters.

This stage version of Paranormal Activity is inspired by the film series, opposed to a direct adaptation. However, having seen the first movie, Levi Holloway's writing is very recognisable, I believe some shared lines and character relationships that develop in the same format. In spite of this, the plot and abilities to scare are fresh and exciting, proving excellent for those familiar and those not.

With leading performances from Patrick Heusinger and Melissa James, a tormented couple share an unbelievable amount of trust and intimacy, a privilege to witness. The startled fear is unmatched, to make every night feel alive with terror as if it were genuine. I was lucky enough to attend the final evening, where the rush is unlike anything else. With supporting roles from Pippa Winslow and Jackie Morrison, the plot is beyond engrossing to leave you guessing! From every actor, the presence is gripping, and I commend every individual for allowing these anxieties to exist with such vulnerability.

And of course, it wouldn't be complete without consciously low lighting from Anna Watson. The slight of darkness enhances the option to conceal and twist images. As the well known night-times descend, followed by brutal extended blackouts, your heartbeat quickens as you prepare for fright. Aforementioned, the tone is established away from cheap and immediate scares, intended to unnerve audiences, to rattle you until the second you fall asleep.

Arranged with Paramount Pictures, Leeds Playhouse's production of Paranormal Activity grasps terrific dramatic progression from scepticism to raw fear. Essentially, everything is top notch here! The shadows are alive, and not a single second is wasted in an utterly thrilling staging. Truthfully one of the most radical and unimaginably exhilarating plays I will ever see. The supernatural energy fuels your imagination for weeks after the performance, and I can only plead for a future revival...