Cher Álvarez Takes the Stage

In the Broadway play Paranormal Activity, Cher Álvarez plays the role of Lou, part of a couple experiencing eerie events. The production, opening on August 25, showcases a haunting with theatrical wonders created by magicians.

The Magic Behind the Scenes

Each year, Broadway audiences seek the enchanting experience of theater magic. In Paranormal Activity, the seemingly impossible unfolds on stage. Chris Fisher, a member of the prestigious Magic Circle society, designs the illusions that captivate theatergoers. Fisher’s experience includes making fantastical events come to life in other productions like Stranger Things: The First Shadow and Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.

Creating Effective Jump Scares

“Catching you on the offbeat” is what we often call it in magic.

According to Fisher, executing scares on stage involves building anticipation and striking at unexpected moments. This technique involves engaging the audience until a surprise occurs, catching them off guard. American audiences, he notes, intensify reactions, with one person’s jump often leading others to follow suit.

Navigating the Line Between Fear and Humor

Fisher emphasizes the delicate balance required to maintain audience engagement without tipping into excessive humor. He cites Blithe Spirit as an example, where exaggerated scares can lead to unintended laughter. He advises that sometimes subtlety, like the ‘Jaws effect’—where unseen threats invoke fear—is more impactful.

Challenges Actors Face with Magic

Fisher notes that teaching magic to actors presents unique challenges due to the need for natural performance. Magic requires precision and can conflict with the actors’ need to maintain believability. He emphasizes the importance of actors staying relaxed to prevent the audience from perceiving any contrivance.

Role of Misdirection in Magic

Misdirection is a crucial tool in Fisher’s repertoire. He instructs actors on how to keep the audience’s focus away from the performed trick. For example, ensuring performers’ relaxed posture can aid in concealing imperceptible actions, enhancing the magic’s effectiveness.

Overall, Fisher’s involvement highlights the crafted artifice behind the stage’s illusions, ensuring audiences leave with a sense of wonderment.