Exploring the Magic Behind Broadway’s Paranormal Activity

Audiences are drawn to Broadway annually, seeking the enchantment known as “theater magic.” Part of this wonder often comes from behind-the-scenes magicians. A notable show delivering this spectacle is Paranormal Activity, which premiered on Broadway on August 25. It immerses theatergoers in a gripping haunting experience.

Chris Fisher, a member of the esteemed Magic Circle society, leads the illusions in Paranormal Activity. He is among a select group of illusion designers coordinating with costume, prop, and lighting teams to marvel audiences. The UK-based magician has also been part of grand productions, creating life-sized battleships in Stranger Things: The First Shadow and orchestrating wizard battles in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

NPR engaged with Fisher to discuss his craft in illusion design and training actors in execution, alongside insights on merging magic and horror on stage.

Magician Chris Fisher demonstrates a magic trick at Curran theater on Monday, Oct. 7, 2019, in San Francisco, Calif. Liz Hafalia/The Chronicle/sfc.

Creating Effective Jump Scares

Executing scares on stage presents challenges. Fisher utilizes a strategic approach of building anticipation without immediate payoff. By repeatedly advancing tension without resolution, audiences are caught off guard when an unexpected event occurs. This technique, known as “catching you on the offbeat,” is a staple in magic.

Reactions vary by audience location, with American audiences exhibiting more explosive responses. This, in turn, sparks a chain reaction of heightened jumps between audience members.

The Balance Between Scary and Over-the-Top

Striking the right tone is crucial. When executed properly, scares can shock and cause a nervous laugh afterward. In contrast, excessive dramatism can shift a scene into silliness, leading to laughter from absurdity rather than shock.

Fisher cites Blithe Spirit as an example, where exaggerated effects become comedic. Less can achieve more, echoing the “Jaws effect,” where the suggestion of danger proves scarier than showing it.

Teaching Magic to Actors

Magic demands precision. Actors face challenges integrating magic naturally into their performances. Fisher works with them to maintain realism, ensuring the portrayal remains convincing. When actors feel unnatural with the magic, it disrupts character believability.

Fisher trains them to avoid looking flustered, which might break their portrayal’s naturalism.

Misdirection in Magic

Misdirection plays a key role in magic. Fisher explains how actors use it to deceive audiences. A stiff hand holding something subtly signals something’s afoot, whereas a relaxed hand doesn’t draw suspicion.

He emphasizes the need for actors to keep their movements natural, directing audience attention away from any hidden objects. Magic proficiency involves repetition and refining subtle actions.