Theatre-Dwelling Ghosts Have a Flair for the Dramatic

Unexplained happenings and paranormal activity have been experienced at the Tarrytown Music Hall, a 136-year-old historic theater located in New York's Hudson Valley Region. Lights mysteriously turning back on after closing. The eerie sound of an unknown singer performing vocal scales in the wings can be heard after hours. There's even a rumor that high-profile artists have refused to stay in one particular dressing room because they “sensed a presence." Who or what could be the cause? Now you can find out…

In theatres across New York State, world-class performances take place to audiences in the hundreds. But it is those unseen performances, to an audience of just one or two, that intrigue us most of all.

In Syracuse, NY, the Landmark Theatre has been standing tall for over 90 years. But just two years after opening, in 1930, tragedy befell the theatre as a young woman in a white dress fell from the balcony to her death. Clarissa’s presence has been felt in the theatre ever since, and she often appears to workers and guests – especially those not following the theatre’s rules. The Landmark welcomes guests in to explore and see if they can catch a glimpse of Clarissa. Guided tours (of any size) are available by reservation. Group investigations can also be arranged.

The Rapids Theatre is one of WNY's most haunted locations. Located in Niagara Falls, some of the paranormal activity includes the sounds of voices, footsteps, a mysterious whistling, key jingling, doors opening and closing, and even sightings of full blown apparitions. Exploring the theatre will take you to places not often seen by patrons - the front and rear tunnels, main floor and stage, VIP balcony and green room - to see what spirits lurk there. Ghost hunts (groups of 10-50) and group investigations are welcome by available appointment, along with occasional public hunts and special events.

The Stanley Theatre in Utica, NY was built in 1928 as a grand movie palace. For more than 90 years this beautiful building has stood as the gem of its area - but something strange is said to lurk inside its walls. Visitors, staff and ghost hunters have seen and heard footsteps, laughter, EVP’s, full body apparitions, and shadow people. Guided tours, stories of spooky happenings, and ghost hunts are available to visitors by appointment.

The Pratt Opera Theater was completed in 1890 in Albion, NY. A grand stage, it seated 800 people for over five decades - in full operation it was not uncommon to see the wealthy in their finery in the box seats and farmers in their coveralls in the cheaper seats. Today, it stands empty... or does it. Experience it for yourself and see if the spirits still linger in this historic setting. Perhaps you will feel that you have met the infamous John Pratt, who name still carries onto the building to this day. Or his nephew still protecting the ticket booth? Or maybe the presence of the young lad stoking the coal stoves during the cold winter weather. Or possibly the faint tinkling of piano keys as the Prince of Entertainers once again looks fondly down upon the Erie Canal gently flowing under the unique Main Street lift bridge. Take a guided tour of the Pratt Event Center by appointment, or sign up for one of two paranormal investigation experiences.

Are you ready to be a spectator in a show like no other? The Haunted History Trail website contains information on ghost hunts, private and public investigations, and guided tours, along with the hours that you can visit and seek out these spirited performers. Or call the theatres directly for questions about the paranormal and tour times.    

As they say in the theatre, “the show must go on” – sometimes, even in the afterlife...