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Phantoms of the Opera House… and Beyond
In the world of fine arts, the stage is never truly empty, and the echoes of the past often refuse to fade. These historic theaters, concert halls, and cultural landmarks have played host to legendary performances—but some spirits refuse to take their final bow. From ghostly figures drifting through the wings to phantom melodies played on unseen instruments, the arts and the afterlife intertwine in eerie harmony. Whether it's a spectral performer, a mysterious patron, or whispers from the past woven into the very walls, these haunted fine arts locations prove that in some venues, the show must—and will—go on.
Once the Bank of Genesee and later a fraternal gathering space, Seymour Place now plays host to a different kind of company—one from beyond the grave. Step inside, and you may find yourself an unexpected guest at an otherworldly cocktail hour. A towering figure in 1860s attire frequents the bar, sometimes joined by shadowy companions. Cigar smoke drifts through the air with no earthly source, and disembodied voices whisper secrets of the past. Even a spectral child is said to linger there, perhaps waiting for a final toast. Take a guided tour, group tour or investigation of Seymour Place, available by appointment, and hear about the spirits that call it home.
The Stanley Theatre is a showstopper in more ways than one. Built in 1928 as a grand movie palace, its ghostly inhabitants refuse to take their final bow. Footsteps echo in empty hallways, laughter rings out from unseen mouths, and shadowy figures lurk in the wings. Full-body apparitions and chilling EVPs add to the eerie ambiance. A true gem of the city, the theatre’s beauty is matched only by its lingering mysteries. Call ahead to book a guided tour or ghost hunt, by appointment.
A classic tale of beauty and tragedy, the Landmark Theatre’s most famous resident isn’t a headlining star but a restless soul. The tragic fall of Clarissa in 1930 left more than just a chilling legend—her pale figure is often seen floating through the grand venue, appearing to those who dare to break the theatre’s rules. Is she a watchful guardian or a vengeful presence? That’s for the audience to decide. Either way, this theatre is always alive with mystery, and offer guided and group tours by appointment, so you can see for yourself.
The Pratt Event Center’s three historic buildings hold more than memories! The Day and Day Building, once a Civil War veterans’ hall, still carries the presence of those who once gathered in brotherhood. The Grand Opera House, dating to 1890, hums with the energy of past performances, with ghostly figures and faint piano melodies lingering long after the curtain has fallen. The Stone Building, the oldest of the trio, once housed saloons and rumored brothels—and its still-functional hand-powered elevator might just carry more than the living. Take a guided tour of the Pratt Event Center by appointment, or sign up for one of two specialized paranormal investigation experiences.
The Old Dutch Church cemetery, dating back to 1658, holds the stories of Dutch settlers, Native Americans, African American slaves, and British soldiers—along with Revolutionary Kingstonians and New York’s first governor, George Clinton. Each year, Theatre on the Road partners with the church for a haunted history tour, where guests follow candlelit paths and encounter the ghosts of Kingston’s past in an immersive, entertaining, and educational experience. Sign up for the experience, offered Saturdays in October.
This 136-year-old theater has its share of unexplained happenings: lights turn on after closing, a ghostly singer warms up her vocal scales in the wings, and performers refuse to enter a certain dressing room, unnerved by an unseen presence. Paranormal investigators have captured EVPs and EMF readings confirming what many have long suspected—the Tarrytown Music Hall is never truly empty. Want to uncover the secrets yourself? Book one of their “balcony to backstage” ghost tours and see what lingers in the wings.
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