The Magic Behind ‘Paranormal Activity’ on Broadway

Each year, audiences turn to Broadway for a touch of theater magic. Much of this spectacle comes from behind-the-scenes work by magicians. Paranormal Activity, which opened on Broadway on August 25, showcases a haunting element that captivates theatergoers.

Chris Fisher, part of the prestigious Magic Circle society, is integral to the illusions in Paranormal Activity. He collaborates with teams handling costumes, props, and lighting to create surprises. Fisher, based in the U.K., has also been part of productions like Stranger Things: The First Shadow and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, where he has created intricate illusions.

Creating Effective Jump Scares

Fisher explains that stage scares rely on drawing audiences in multiple times before springing a surprise. This technique, called “catching you on the offbeat,” is common in magic. In America, audience reactions are typically more pronounced and often contagious, amplifying each subsequent jump.

Balancing Scary with Humor

There’s a fine line between what is genuinely scary and what becomes overly animated, which can lead to laughter. Fisher references Blithe Spirit, where exaggerated effects become humorous. He advocates a “less is more” approach, similar to the Jaws effect, where subtlety evokes more fear than overt displays.

The Challenges for Actors Learning Magic

Magic requires precision and often feels awkward. Actors, while playing their natural roles, face challenges when incorporating magic, as it might feel contrived and disrupt their naturalism. Ensuring they remain believable while performing magic is crucial.

The Role of Misdirection

Misdirection is a vital magic tool. Actors might hold an item they need to conceal from the audience. Initially, this feels unnatural, but with practice, they learn to keep their body relaxed. The audience’s attention follows the actor’s gaze, so subtle guidance is essential to avoid detection.