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The Haunted Devonshire Park Theatre: The Phantom Violinist of Eastbourne

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Could one of the musicians on the Titanic be haunting the Devonshire Park Theatre in Eastbourne, England? Who is the person behind the ghost said to still be playing the violin?

In the seaside town of Eastbourne, the Devonshire Park Theatre stands as one of England’s most elegant Victorian playhouses. 

Since its grand opening in 1884, the theatre has welcomed countless performers, audiences, and stories to its stage. But when the last curtain falls and the lights dim, it is said that not all who linger in the theatre belong to the living.

Devonshire Park Theatre by Oast House Archive

The Violinist from Titanic Haunting the Orchestra Pit

For decades, whispers have circulated about a ghostly musician who haunts the Devonshire Park Theatre. Some claim to have seen a man dressed in white tie and tails standing silently in the orchestra pit or seated among the stalls, his instrument cradled gently beneath his chin. The figure, shimmering faintly in the low light, is said to vanish the moment one looks twice.

Reports of this spectral violinist date back to the 1960s and 1970s, when both staff and visitors described fleeting glimpses of him during rehearsals and late-night performances. Though sightings have become less frequent in recent years, those who have experienced the haunting speak of a deep sense of melancholy that seems to hang in the air whenever the mysterious music begins.

For a time, locals believed the apparition to be none other than John Wesley Woodward, the Titanic’s heroic cellist who famously continued to play as the ship went down in 1912. 

John Wesley Woodward: (11 September 1879 – 15 April 1912) was an English musician. Born in West Bromwich. A memorial plaque was erected to Woodward on the promenade in Eastbourne depicting the Titanic as it sank.

In Eastbourne, he played the cello both at the Grand Hotel and in the local orchestra. While in Eastbourne he joined the White Star Line musicians, playing on transatlantic ships. On 10 April 1912, he boarded the RMS Titanic at Southampton for her maiden Transatlantic voyage. Five days later, on 15 April 1912, the ship hit an iceberg and he and the other musicians famously continued to play as the Titanic sank. Their final tune was, according to some survivor accounts, “Nearer, My God, To Thee”. All members of the band, including his friend Jock Hume, drowned, and the body of Wesley Woodward was never recovered.

The theory gained traction due to Woodward’s connection to Eastbourne, where he is memorialized with a plaque at the Bandstand. However, researchers later discovered that the ghostly musician could not be Woodward, as the spirit has always been described as a violinist, not a cellist.

Who, then, is the phantom that haunts the Devonshire Park Theatre? 

Paranormal Investigation at the Theatre

The mysterious violinist is perhaps not the only ghost haunting the theatre though. According to a spokesperson, they actually had a few paranormal investigators at their venue in 2005. According to a medium visiting and doing the investigation with them, they believed that a ghost haunting the place could have been Murray King who was an actor and licensee of the venue in the late 1800s up until the 1930s. Could this also be the identity of the mysterious violinist? 

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References:

The Paranormal Database – Eastbourne

The drowned boy and the ghosts that haunt our theatres

Devonshire Park Theatre – Wikipedia

John Wesley Woodward – Wikipedia

John Wesley Woodward : Titanic Cellist (Victim)

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Legends of Oriental Theater and the Ghosts from The Great Chicago Fire Disaster

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After a devastating fire in the old Iroquois Theater in Chicago around 600 people died trying to escape the flames. Even after the Oriental Theater was built in its place, some still believe the ghost from the fire is haunting the stage. 

The Oriental Theater in the windy city of Chicago is a grand venue that has been entertaining audiences for over 90 years. But behind the grandeur and glitz lies a dark and eerie history, filled with ghostly legends and supernatural stories. 

Read More: Check out all ghost stories from USA

Many people believe that the Oriental Theater is one of the most haunted venues in Chicago, with a long list of ghostly sightings and unexplained phenomena. What sets this ghost story apart though is how the haunting origin story is more scary than the haunting itself. And the most deadly haunting happened as soon as this spot in the city was turned into a theater. 

The Nederlander: The theater has had many names and is today called The Nederlander. Before this exact theater were built, another one who burnt is said to have caused the haunting said to go on inside of the building.

The Fire of the Iroquois Theater and Death Alley

The Oriental Theater, formerly known as the Iroquois Theater, opened its doors in 1903 at 24 W. Randolph Street. It was a grand venue, with a seating capacity of over 1,700, and was designed to be the most luxurious theater in the world. The newspaper also advertised with it being fireproof. But just as Titanic was unsinkable, the theater would catch fire as soon as it opened.

Just five weeks after its opening during a performance of a comedy-musical called Mr. Bluebeard starring Eddie Foy, tragedy struck when a fire broke. The show had been a success and the theatre were sold out with extra standing tickets being issued. Most of the spectators were women attending with their children. 

A spark from the stage lights hit the very flammable muslin backdrop and it burst into flames quickly. First, they weren’t too panicked, as they all believed it when they said it would be safe from fire. But then the fire started to spread, and none of the fire prevention equipment seemed to be working.

When the spectators tried to flee the theater, they were unable to locate the exits as they were not labeled and doors were locked. In the staircase people were trampled, crushed or asphyxiated to death. 

When the crew and actors escape in the backscene doors, the cold air caused a fireball that shot out from the stage onto the crowd. Those who managed to find a window or get to the roof jumped to their death. 

There were no fire-alarm box in the building and when the fire department finally arrived, it was already too late. 602 people lost their lives in the 30 minutes blaze, making it one of the deadliest theater fires in history and was remembered as The Great Chicago Fire Disaster.

Hundreds of bodies were piled up in the theater of mostly women and children. It reportedly took over five hours to gather them all, the amount of bodies raging six feet above the ground. The next door space turned into a temporary morgue and hospital. Soon, the alley right next to the theater was called the Death Alley and was remembered as such for a long time.

Ever since there have been rumors about it being haunted and the spirit of the dead lingering in the alley now known as Couch Place. Whispers in the night as well as people feeling the ghostly touch on the shoulders.

So some say that the theater was cursed from the start, but it was certainly not the end though. 

Couch Place: Commonly called the Alley of Death, was the place they place the bodies after the fire and many have experienced strange things in this backstage place of the Chicago theater district. // Source

The Start of Oriental Theater

After the fire, the theater was rebuilt and renamed the Oriental Theater in 1926. In 1988 the Oriental Theater closed down and fell into disrepair,  but it was restored in 1998 and is now a popular venue once again. 

Read More: Check out all Haunted Theaters

However, the history of the Iroquois Theater fire has left a lasting impact on the theater, and many believe that it is responsible for the ghostly sightings and unexplained phenomena that occur there.

Ghostly Legends and Reports

There have been many reports of ghostly activity at the Oriental Theater over the years. The ghosts of those who perished in the fire is also said to haunt the newly built theater and people claim to have seen their spirit leaping out from the window onto the street as a death loop. There is also the smell of smoke coming from nowhere that people claim is a remnant lingering from the deadly fire. 

When actors are on stage they report about seeing shadows moving on the balconies. In the fire, they perhaps had it worse, as they were the ones locked inside and were unable to open the doors leading down to the first floor. 

The Wicked Incident

One of the stories told was during a production of the musical Wicked. Ana Gasteyer had the role of Elphaba. In the end of Act I, there is a scene where she learns to fly and smog and fog comes from the auditorium and filling the stage. She told in the writing Celebrity Ghost Stories that she looked to the sides in the wings. They were filled with people, more people than the stagehands of the production used to have there. 

The people didn’t look like crew either, they looked like families, but when she landed and the smoke cleared, there was no one there. 

She also claimed to have seen a woman in the hallways with a boy and a girl, all wearing period clothes. It was first when she asked her dresser about it that she thought they might have been ghosts, as Dec 30. was coming up. 

Could this have been one of the performances she claimed to have seen the ghosts?

Spooky Events and Experiences at Oriental Theater

The Oriental Theater in Chicago is a grand venue that has entertained audiences for over ninety years. In 2018 it was renamed to the James M. Nederlander Theatre, after the founder of Broadway in Chicago.

But behind the glamour and glitz lies a dark and eerie history, filled with ghostly legends and supernatural stories and the danger of fire.

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References:

 The Oriental Theatre, now James M. Nederlander Theatre in Chicago is one of the world’s most haunted places – NBC Chicago
Chicago Hauntings: The Horrors Of The Iroquois Theater Fire That Killed 602 People Downtown In 1903, And Stories About Ghosts Left Behind
Death Alley Near Nederlander Theatre – Windy City Ghosts
Iroquois Theatre Fire: History & Discovery of GhostsIroquois Theatre fire – Wikipedia

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The Cursed Butcher Apprentice Haunting Rathausgasse in Bern

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Said to be cursed after torturing a calf, the butcher apprentice is now cursed to haunt the old butcher street for eternity. For centuries now, people claim to have heard the horrid sound of hooves clattering on the ground as he was transformed into the very thing he tortured for fun.

The medieval streets of Bern’s Old Town have always held their share of mysteries, but few places are said to be as restless after dark as Rathausgasse, the street leading to the city’s historic town hall. As the sun sets behind the sandstone facades, something unseen seems to stir in the narrow alleys.

Read More: Check out all ghost stories from Switzerland

At night, residents and late-night wanderers report hearing the clatter of hooves on cobblestones, and the sharp crash of objects falling in empty rooms. Yet when they investigate, there are no horses, no wagons, and nothing disturbed. The streets remain eerily quiet. Perhaps it was the cursed butcher apprentice said to haunt the streets of Bern?

Rathausgasse: Die Berner Rathausgasse im Regen, 1992, Hotel Glocke. //Source: Christian Boss 1965/Wikimedia

Ghostly Encounters at Rathausgasse and the old Butcher’s Alley

From 1619 the upper section (now Rathausgasse) was known as Metzgergasse (Butcher’s Lane), while the lower section was first called Postgasse in 1798. The area was also a well known red light district. Throughout the 19th century, residents complained about the waste, smell and noise associated with the Schaal, an open hall of butcher’s stalls vis-à-vis the Simsonbrunnen in Kramgasse. The former slaughterhouse (No. 22) is a cultural asset of regional importance.

They claim the restless spirit of a cruel butcher’s apprentice roams these alleys in the dead of night known as the ghost of Rathausgasse or the Schaal Ghost. 

Centuries ago, this heartless apprentice is said to have brutally slaughtered a calf, not out of necessity, but for his own amusement.

As punishment for his senseless cruelty, his spirit was cursed to live on as a ghostly calf, forever roaming the alleys of the old town. It is said that the clatter of hooves heard in Rathausgasse belongs to him — a spectral animal seeking peace he can never find.

Hauntings at the Schlachthaus-Theater

The eerie activity in Bern isn’t confined to the streets, but also at the old slaughterhouse in Rathausgasse, now used as a theater and called the Schlachthaus-Theater. The theater is reportedly no stranger to the paranormal and staff and spectators claim to have heard the unmistakable sound of hooves clattering. 

But it is certainly not the only ghost said to haunt the halls of the theater. Actors and stagehands alike have whispered of unexplained noises, mysterious cold drafts, and fleeting shadows moving behind the curtains. Props fall for no reason, doors creak open, and some claim to hear faint, mournful voices when the house is empty.

One actress claims to have heard the sound of pearls clattering, like a pearl necklace ripping and falling to the floor. This went on all night, but she was unable to find any of them. 

Though no single spirit has been identified, many believe these hauntings are tied to the rich and often tumultuous history of the building and its past performers, some of whom perhaps never quite left the stage.

A City of Stories and Ghosts

In Bern, where every corner seems to guard a story from the past, such legends aren’t easily dismissed. Whether it’s the ghostly calf of Rathausgasse or the spirits lingering in the theater, these stories continue to be woven into the living fabric of the old city, kept alive by the ghost tours around the city and those looking for something haunted

Source: Nikolai Karaneschev/Wikimedia

And so, when the night falls and the streets of Bern grow quiet, some say it’s wise to listen for the faint sound of hooves… and remember that in this ancient city, the past never truly rests.

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References:

Hier spukt es: Unheimliche Orte in der Schweiz | WEB.DE

Die Geister, die sie riefen | Berner Zeitung

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The Faceless Ghost of Old Waialae Drive-In Theater

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A particular faceless ghost was said to haunt the Old Waialae Drive-In Theater in Honolulu. Even after it was closed down, people have talked and whispered about the ghost that appeared in the women’s bathroom. 

In vibrant Honolulu, Hawaii, at the intersection of Waialae Avenue and 21st Avenue, stood the Old Waialae Drive-In Theater—a cherished entertainment spot that opened on May 24, 1956. Operated by Royal Theatres, this outdoor cinema had a capacity of 790 cars and quickly became a popular destination for families and film enthusiasts. Its grand opening featured classics like “Elephant Walk” starring Elizabeth Taylor and James Stewart’s “The Naked Spur,” heralding a new era of leisure and entertainment in the community.

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For three decades, the Old Waialae Drive-In thrived, offering the magic of the silver screen under the Hawaiian stars. However, as the years passed, the theater began to show signs of age and, by January 1986, it played its final film, “Young Sherlock Holmes.” The beloved drive-in then closed its gates forever, making way for an upscale subdivision across from Kahala Mall. Yet, long before its demolition, the Old Waialae Drive-In was known not just for its cinematic charm but for its eerie, unexplained phenomena that haunted the premises, particularly in the women’s restroom.

Local legend tells of a ghostly presence that lurked in the ladies’ room—a faceless woman with long, flowing hair. This apparition was said to haunt the restroom stalls, creating a spine-chilling atmosphere that left many visitors unnerved. Witnesses recounted hearing frantic pounding on stall doors and seeing the spectral figure appear in the restroom mirror, her blank face a terrifying void.

Encounters with the Unknown

Newspaper article

Stories of encounters with the faceless woman spread quickly among the patrons and employees, and it even reached the newspapers on May 19 in 1959. 

A girl left her car around midnight to fix her lipstick in the restroom. She looked into the mirror and saw a figure standing behind her, describing the ghost with long hair, but having no face to look back at her. The ghost had no legs, and only a torso, floating above the ground. 

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When she turned around, there was no one there. The door suddenly slammed shut and the lock turned by an unseen force. The girl, scared out of her mind, fainted and had to recover from the shock in a hospital. 

This is not the only version of the story that was told during this time though. According to other sources the woman had come into the restroom and seen a woman standing in front of the mirror, combing her long hair. When she approached and said something, the woman turned to her, revealing she had no face. Also this version ended with the girl who encountered the ghost ending up in a hospital because of the shock. 

The Drive-In’s Dark Legacy

The Old Waialae Drive-In’s proximity to an old cemetery only fueled the chilling tales. Some believed the faceless woman was a restless spirit from the graveyard, seeking solace or perhaps revenge. Others speculated she might be the ghost of a woman who had met a tragic end nearby and buried there, her spirit forever bound to the place of her untimely demise and the theater built on top of it. Regardless of her origin, the faceless woman’s presence was an indelible part of the theater’s lore.

Despite these ghostly encounters, the Old Waialae Drive-In remained a beloved local landmark until its closure. In fact, when the frenzy of the ghost stories spread, it was reported that people flocked to the theater, and business was booming of people trying to watch a movie as well as looking for the ghost.

But how real it was. According to Albert Silva who worked as the manager for the Drive-in, he had never heard people talk about ghosts before this happened. He also mentioned that there used to be a girl coming to the place often to play pranks on people in the restroom. Could this have been the end of it?

The Legend Resurface at Old Waialae Drive-In

It was not the end of the tales of the faceless woman in the restroom. Also in 1982 the tale started spreading again, sounding very similar to the one told in 1959. Could the ghost have made a new appearance? She was also reported to have appeared in 1992.

Added to the story from 1959, some versions tell of seeing a fireball after seeing the ghost in 1969. According to the stories it was a three-foot wide ball of fire that flew about thirty feet into the air before hurling into the screen of the Old Waialae Drive-In.

There have also been talks about her banging on the bathroom doors when people are inside and appearing almost like she is sick or drunk. Sometimes her hair is black, sometimes it’s red. 

According to Glen Grant who wrote the Obake Files in 1996, there were also stories about three people that had seen her who died later, although there really aren’t any stories about the ghost actually harming them other than giving them a real fright. 

Traces of the Legend other Places

So what type of ghost are we really talking about here haunting the Old Waialae Drive-In? According to Grant and many others, he draws the lines on what was told about at the Drive-In to ghost stories from Japan. There really aren’t many ghost stories involving faceless ghosts in Polynesian or Western culture, but there certainly is in Japanese folklore, and Japanese immigration to Hawaii is certainly seen in many aspects of the storytelling from the islands. 

Read Also: Check also out The Haunting of Kaimuki House: A Tale of Terror and Tragedy also said to be a ghost story inspired by Japanese mythology.

Many describe the ghost in this story as a Mujina. The Mujina ghost is a well-known figure in Japanese folklore, meaning badger, often depicted as a shapeshifting spirit or yōkai capable of taking on various forms, including that of a faceless woman. 

But does the Mujina type of ghost really fit though? They are certainly often used interchangeably, but are often seen as more like a creature like the Kitsune than a ghost. Although, the Mujina has tales about omitting a ghost-fire, perhaps like the fireball reported on. 

Another type of ghost from Japanese folklore is the Noppera-bō, or faceless ghost, is a creature from Japanese folklore known for its eerie ability to appear human until it reveals its blank, smooth face devoid of eyes, nose, or mouth. The Noppera-bō are often referred to as a mujina by mistake. These yōkai, often encountered in deserted or secluded areas such as roadsides, forests, or quiet urban settings, typically startle their victims by first appearing as ordinary people. They might even engage in conversation before their facial features suddenly vanish, leaving a blank visage that evokes shock and terror. 

Japanese Noppera-bō Source

The Cinema with the Same Haunted Story

In addition to the old traces of Japanese folklore, the place has an eerie resemblance to another theater where the same type of story circulated. The former East Town Theatre in Hong Kong also had a story similar to this. A girl went into the bathroom there and brushed her hair in front of the mirror. Although in this cinema, the ghost took her head off to brush the hair in the sink. Some also say the ghost was just standing there, no mention of it being faceless. According to this story though, the girl ran out from the bathroom, but fell over and died after the encounter. 

To read more about this story and the other ghost stories from this place, head over to the Movie Watching Ghosts at East Town Theatre. Another detail about this haunted cinema, was that this too was rumored to be built on top of an old funeral parlor. Could the two theaters have similar stories, or perhaps been inspired by each other, despite being oceans apart?

The Legacy of the Drive-In

The haunting of the Old Waialae Drive-In Theater is still told, even after the place was torn down in 1986 and there is now a housing development of the Nohona Kahala gated community across from the Kahala Mall instead. Are there still people who claim to see the faceless woman roaming about? In November 1989, three years after the Old Waialae Drive-in had been torn down, the faceless woman appeared in the basement of a hospital in Honolulu

Is she still seen though? This once popular story seems to have died down in the last decades. Those who remember the theater can’t help but wonder about the faceless woman’s fate and whether her spirit still roams, forever tied to the memories of the old drive-in that once stood at Waialae Avenue and 21st Avenue.

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References:

Waialae Drive-In in Honolulu, HI – Cinema Treasures 

https://www.newspapers.com/image/258231972/?clipping_id=10984210&fcfToken=eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJmcmVlLXZpZXctaWQiOjI1ODIzMTk3MiwiaWF0IjoxNzIxODk0MTgxLCJleHAiOjE3MjE5ODA1ODF9.7MbdbgWE509sM220lD6YVUzNJr0agXinL2qoyJD-CQE

Searching the Home of Mujina: For Glen Grant – Part 1 

The Faceless Woman of Oahu | Monsters Here & There

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The Haunted ‘Iao Theatre and its Ghostly Stage in Wailuku

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The old ‘Iao Theatre on Maui, Hawaii is said to be haunted by more than one ghost. Who is the misty face people catch in photos, and who was Emma, said to still be dancing on the stage? 

In Wailuku, Maui, the Iao Theatre holds plenty of historic charm and spectral mystery. This Spanish Mission-style theater opened its doors in 1928, has long been a cultural hub, showcasing movies and vaudeville performances. 

Read More: Check out all ghost stories from the USA

However, behind its elegant facade and beneath the bright lights of its stage lies a chilling history of hauntings that continue to intrigue and unsettle visitors to this day. It is believed to be haunted by ghosts that make things fly off shelves and cause chaos in the dressing room, making people not wanting to spend any time alone in certain parts of the building. 

The Storied Past of ‘Iao Theatre

The Iao Theatre’s journey began in the late 1920s, quickly becoming a beloved venue for both movies and live performances. The name comes from a small bait fish named the iao. For decades, ‘Iao Theatre thrived as a center of entertainment, during the world the USO put on Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope and Betty Hutton, but by the 1980s, the theater had fallen into disrepair. ‘Iao Theatre closed the doors in the 70s, and nothing was happening until someone took it upon themselves to restore it to its former glory.

Read More: Check out all haunted theaters

Despite this decline, the theater’s significance was recognized, and it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995. Following this, efforts to restore the theater brought it back to life, but with its revival came the resurgence of ghostly tales that have plagued the theater for years.

The Lady of the ‘Iao Theatre

Among the most frequently reported apparitions is that of a misty, female figure. Described as having a friendly and gentle presence, this ghostly lady is often seen sitting quietly in the theater seats, watching the stage even after the audience has long gone. Some have even spotted her on the stage itself, her form barely visible through the haze, as if she’s still performing for an unseen crowd.

Her exact identity remains a mystery, but her presence is so common that she has become an integral part of the theater’s lore. They now call her Emma, and is believed to be one of the unknown flappers and actresses that took part in the productions in the 1920s and especially during productions like Chicago and Cabaret her ghost would make herself known. 

Once she was making production harder for the theater company and they started to call out different names to make her stop. Lights were flickering, the electric equipment would malfunction. It was a sense of paranormal relief when they called out Emma, and it is said that ever since, she has stopped messing with production. 

Cold Spots and Eerie Sensations

It is not only the mysterious ghost of Emma on the stage that are said to be haunted. The lower levels of the ‘Iao Theatre are particularly notorious for paranormal activity as well. People have reported unexplained cold spots, even in the heat of summer, and a pervasive sense of being watched. These sensations are often accompanied by the faint sounds of footsteps and whispers, as if the ghosts are trying to communicate with the living.

There are many speculations about where this haunting comes from, some of them dating further back than the theater itself. It is believed that the ghosts lingering are the spirits of Hawaiian soldiers that died during a battle in the Iao Valley many centuries ago.

The Ghostly Mist

In addition to the apparitions and cold spots, a mysterious mist has been reported swirling through the ‘Iao Theatre, particularly around the seats and stage. This mist is often seen late at night, moving in unnatural patterns and disappearing as quickly as it appears. Witnesses describe it as a translucent, almost ethereal fog that seems to have a mind of its own.

One visitor is said to have captured a photo of the mist while attending a performance. When they reviewed the picture, they were shocked to see a face forming within the mist, looking directly at the camera. 

Despite its haunted reputation, the Iao Theatre remains a beloved cultural landmark. It continues to host performances, drawing in audiences who come for both the shows and the chance to experience its ghostly residents. The spirits, it seems, are as much a part of the theater’s fabric as the curtains and the stage.

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References:

ʻĪao Theater – Wikipedia 

Maui’s ‘Iao Theater Stars in SYFY Ghost Story Episode

History | Maui On Stage 

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The Haunted Hawai’i Theater: A Century of Ghostly Tales

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On stage in the dark, it is said that the ghost of a Hula dancer is dancing away at the haunted Hawai’i Theater, once called the Pride of the Pacific. But what truly lurks in the shadows behind the stage? 

The Hawaii Theater, an iconic cultural landmark in Honolulu since its opening in 1922, has captivated audiences with its grandeur and rich history. Once upon a time it was even called the pride of the Pacific because of its style and decor. However, beyond its dazzling performances and architectural beauty lies a spine-chilling legacy of ghostly encounters and eerie phenomena.

Read More: Check out all ghost stories from the USA

After shutting down in 1984 it went through some stages of abandonment before it was renovated and reopened in 1996. According to some of the rumors, it seems like the renovation acted like a trigger for the paranormal activity inside and brought it to life. 

Hawai’i Theater: The Hawaii Theatre, at 1130 Bethel Street, was built in 1922 by Consolidated Amusements of Honolulu. // Source: Wally Gobetz/Flickr

The History of the Haunted Hawai’i Theater

The origins of the Hawaii Theater’s hauntings are shrouded in mystery, with many attributing the spectral activities to the discovery of bones beneath the theater during its early years. These remains, believed to be from a time long before the theater’s construction, are thought to have stirred restless spirits, forever linking them to the site.

Patrons and staff alike have reported a wide array of paranormal experiences, from fleeting glimpses of apparitions in the audience to the eerie sensation of being watched in the empty corridors.

Hula Dancing Ghost: One of the ghosts known to haunt the Hawai’i Theater, is said to be the ghost of a hula dancer.

One of the most famous legends involves the ghost of a woman seen roaming the balconies. Described as wearing attire from a bygone era, she is often spotted gazing longingly at the stage, perhaps reminiscing about performances she once attended or participated in. Her presence, while not malevolent, sends shivers down the spines of those who encounter her.

There is said to be the ghost of a man who is said to haunt the theater’s green room. According to some his portrait still hangs in the room and he was a long time donor to the theater. 

Another man said to haunt the Hawai’i Theater is the ghost of a Chinese man who were said to have been murdered in the building in its early days. Who he was exactly is unknown, but it is said he was some sort of janitor, or perhaps a gambler left to die alone in the building.  He is the one to blame apparently when the door keep opening and closing without anyone entering, the lights flickering or even the lights flickering in the ceiling. 

The Hula Dancer Haunting the Stage

Another story tells about the Hula dancer who took to the stage one night many years ago. This was said to have been the last time anyone saw her alive, although not the last time she visited the Hawai’i Theater. 

A rumor was that if you were at the theater on a particular night you would be able to see her ghost, still on the stage, dancing to a song called Ei Nei. 

Hawai’i Theater: The song is thought to be playing as the ghost of the hula dancer is dancing alone to it on stage.

Other reports include the unsettling sound of footsteps echoing through the halls long after the Hawai’i Theater has closed for the night. These footsteps are often accompanied by inexplicable cold spots, sudden drops in temperature that defy explanation. Some staff members have also recounted the unnerving experience of objects moving on their own, lights flickering, and doors creaking open without a breeze in sight.

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The Theatre – Hawaii Theatre Center 

Hawaii Theatre’s haunted history takes centerstage in upcoming ‘Chicken Skin’ show 

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The Woman in Red Haunting the Tapia Theater in San Juan, Puerto Rico

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Sitting on the balcony of the Tapia Theater, it is said that the ghost of a woman in red is watching the stage and performances. Who was she when she was alive and why is she so tied to the old theater?

In the capital of Puerto Rico, San Juan, lies the historic Tapia Theater. This 19th-century Italian style horse-shoe building has been a cultural hub for over a century, hosting countless plays, musicals, and other performances. But, as with many old buildings, Tapia Theater has a darker side. Over the years, rumors have swirled about ghostly sightings and unexplained occurrences within the theater’s walls.

From phantom footsteps to eerie voices, the theater’s spectral legends have captivated locals and visitors alike. Some believe that the spirits of long-dead actors and audience members still haunt the theater, while others attribute the strange happenings to residual energy left behind by the building’s rich history. 

Tapia Theater: The historic Tapia Theater in San Juan, Puerto Rico, known for its cultural significance and ghostly legends.

The History of Tapia Theater

Tapia Theater has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the late 1800s. The theater was named after Alejandro Tapia y Rivera, a renowned Puerto Rican playwright and poet and its full name is Teatro Alejandro Tapia y Rivera. It was originally built as a venue for cultural events and quickly became a popular gathering place for the city’s elite across Plaza de Colón on Fortaleza Street. Over the years, Tapia Theater has played host to a wide range of performances, from operas and ballets to plays and musicals.

Haunted Theater: View of the Municipal Theater (today Tapia) and the Bay of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Throughout its history, Tapia Theater has undergone many changes and renovations. The building has survived fires, natural disasters, and even the ravages of time. Despite all of this, it has remained a beloved cultural institution in San Juan. Today, the theater continues to draw crowds with its mix of classic and contemporary performances, as well as its rich history and ghostly legends.

The Ghostly Legends Surrounding Tapia Theater

As with many old buildings, Tapia Theater has its fair share of ghost stories and legends. Over the years, there have been countless reports of strange occurrences and unexplained phenomena within the theater’s walls. Some of the most popular ghost stories include sightings of a mysterious lady in red, phantom footsteps heard in the empty halls, and strange voices whispering in the darkness.

Read More: Check out more ghost stories from haunted theaters around the world

One of the most famous ghostly legends associated with Tapia Theater is the story of the ghostly apparitions seen by performers and audience members. According to legend, these ghostly figures are the spirits of long-dead actors and patrons who still haunt the theater to this day. Some people believe that these ghosts are trapped in the building, unable to move on to the afterlife.

The Mysterious Lady in Red

One of the most enduring ghost stories associated with Tapia Theater is that of the mysterious lady. She is often described wearing Edwardian Era clothes, often said to be red. 

According to legend, the ghostly figure of a woman in a flowing red dress has been seen wandering the theater’s halls and backstage area. Some people believe that this woman is the ghost of a famous actress who died in the theater many years ago, while others think she might be a former patron who loved the theater so much that she never wanted to leave.

Many people have reported seeing the lady in white over the years, particularly in the early morning hours when the theater is empty. Some legends say that she shows up in Box 105 during performances, but vanishes before people get a closer look at her. 

Haunting the Balconies: Said to look at the performances on stage, the lady in red is said to be haunting her own box. // Source: Michael Vila/Flickr

Some say that she was an actress who fell from the stage in the middle of her performance and broke her neck and died. Is it the same ghost showing up on the balcony, watching the performances from afar, or perhaps this is a separate ghost all together and there are actually two ghosts haunting the theater? 

Those who have looked into the story, haven’t really found any evidence of an actress dying on stage in front of a crowd in the 1800s. Still, the story and reports of seeing her ghosts keeps coming in. 

Visiting Tapia Theater and Experiencing the Paranormal Activity

For thrill-seekers and ghost hunters, a visit to Tapia Theater is a must-do activity when visiting San Juan. The theater offers ghost tours and paranormal investigations, allowing visitors to explore the spooky legends for themselves. Many people have reported experiencing strange occurrences and ghostly sightings during their visits, adding to the theater’s reputation as a haunted hotspot.

Tapia Theater is more than just a cultural institution in San Juan – it’s also one of the most haunted buildings in Puerto Rico. From the ghostly lady in white to the haunted backstage area, the theater’s spectral legends have captivated locals and visitors alike for over a century. While some believe that the ghostly legends are nothing more than urban legends, others are convinced that the spirits of long-dead actors and patrons still haunt the theater to this day. 

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Teatro Tapia – Wikipedia

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The Haunting History of the Mick Lally Theatre in Galway

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In Druid Lane in the old part of Galway, there once used to be a number of nunneries. After The Mick Lally Theatre moved into the street, reports started coming about people seeing the ghost of a faceless nun wandering outside. 

The Mick Lally Theatre, home to the renowned Druid Theatre Company, is a hub of artistic and cultural significance in Galway, Ireland. While the Mick Lally Theatre is celebrated for its performances and contributions to the arts, it also harbors a mysterious and eerie history, with stories of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena. 

Read More: Check out all of the ghost stories from Ireland

In 1979, the Druid Theatre Company found its new residence in a former tea storehouse on Courthouse Lane, tucked away off Quay Street in one of the oldest parts of Galway City. At that time, the building was one of several in the area that had remained abandoned for years. Little did they know that their new home would soon become a cornerstone of the city’s cultural landscape.

The theater’s name pays homage to one of its founding members, Mick Lally, a beloved figure in Irish theater known for his remarkable contributions as an actor and director. 

Druid Lane Transformed Around Mick Lally Theatre

The Druid Theatre Company in its new location was a success and the Courthouse Lane itself underwent a transformation as the Mick Lally Theatre did well and people started to flock to the area. In 1996, as a tribute to the company’s 21st anniversary and its vital role in the city’s cultural scene, Courthouse Lane was officially renamed “Druid Lane.” Today, it stands as a bustling thoroughfare and a vibrant cultural center in the heart of Galway.

However, in the shadows of the once abandoned building that is now Mick Lally Theatre, the ghost of the past sometimes made an appearance as well.

The Haunting of a Faceless Nun

The surrounding area of the Mick Lally Theatre was once inhabited by nuns in the numerous convents and nunneries in the area. This is the backstory that has given rise to chilling tales of ghostly encounters. Among these stories is the haunting apparition of a faceless nun who is said to silently wander along Druid Lane, just outside the theater’s doors. 

In the 1980s, the theater’s reputation for the supernatural was bolstered by an unsettling incident involving a well-known actor, Sean McGinley. Late one night, as McGinley toiled away in the Mick Lally Theatre, he reported hearing strange and unexplained noises emanating from within the building itself that made him flee the place before seeing anything else.

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References:

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The Druid Ghost – website archive – Druid Theatre Company, Galway, Ireland

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The Ghostly Tales of Dublin’s Olympia Theatre

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Behind the stage of the Olympia Theatre in Dublin, it is said that ghosts roam the dressing rooms and stages when the curtain is down. Staff have told us about everything from strange lights to full blown poltergeist activity and if we are to believe the reports, the hauntings are still going on. 

Dublin, a city rich in history and culture, is home to the Olympia Theatre, a grand venue that has witnessed over 140 years of entertainment. While it has hosted countless spectacular performances, the theater also boasts a darker side, with chilling ghost stories and eerie encounters that linger long after the curtain falls. Join us on a journey through the haunted history of the Olympia Theatre in Temple Bar.

A Stage Steeped in History

Wikimedia

Located on Dame Street, Dublin, the Olympia Theatre has been a cultural epicenter since its inception in 1879 when it opened as the Erin Music Hall. Over the years, this stage has welcomed an array of music, theater, and comedy performances, showcasing both local talents and international stars.

Read More: Check out all of the ghost stories from Ireland

It also housed the first screening of a cinematic movie on April 20th in 1896 from the Lumiere brothers. This is said to have had a profound effect on James Joyce who saw it with his sister, and he has also written passages on music hall culture in his masterpiece, Ulysses. 

Yet, it is the energy left behind by these remarkable shows that seems to attract some mysterious visitors, who choose to linger in the shadows.

Maureen Grant’s Mysterious Encounters

In 2021, the Olympia Theatre lost one of its beloved staff members, Maureen Grant that started working there in 1949, and remembers most of its history, like when the ceiling came crashing down in 1949 and the ghosts said to haunt the theater. 

In 2015, Maureen shared her series of eerie encounters with the Irish Independent, unveiling a tapestry of strange incidents. She recalled malfunctioning light switches, the haunting sound of a crying baby, and a personal experience that sent shivers down her spine. 

“I was standing in my bra and pants and as I turned on the tap the door opened. I said ‘Who is that?’ No answer so I closed the door, thought it was the breeze or something, and the next thing is the door goes bang, my smock came off the door and my tips went flying. I got really scared and fucked my coat on and ran into the café as I was with nothing under my coat.”
(source)

The haunting just became worse and to address the escalating paranormal activity, the theater brought in a medium that went to search for the specter. Inside for three hours in the theater, the medium identified the source of the baby’s cries and even gave the ghost a name—Charlie Parker. The theater’s bar became a hotspot for poltergeist activity, with glasses mysteriously flying off shelves and coins leaping from tills. 

John Brogan’s Ghostly Encounter

Maureen was not the only staff member that something was going on in the theater though.  Former stage manager John Brogan worked for 33 years at the Olympia Theatre and had his own paranormal experience early in his tenure. 

On a quiet Sunday afternoon, he watched in astonishment as a ghostly blue light floated out of one of the dressing rooms, gliding up the corridor, passing him, and disappearing around a corner. He never found out exactly what it was, but it made him believe the other stories that people told.

Additionally, the friendly apparition of a pallbearer began making appearances in the theater’s center aisle, a ghostly presence that the staff grew accustomed to and no one seems to mind, like it was an everyday occurrence to work alongside with ghosts.

Magical Chills with Joe Daly

You would think magicians would be almost comfortable with sharing a dressing room with ghosts, but even they can be a little skeptical of the paranormal. In 2008, magician Joe Daly was gearing up for his captivating show, ‘Magick Macabre,’ at the Olympia Theatre. Little did he know that he would experience something otherworldly in his dressing room. Joe described the eerie encounter to the Irish Independent, recounting an overwhelming feeling of unease and a palpable presence in the room. 

Unbeknownst to him, this dressing room had a spooky reputation, something both John Brogan and Maureen probably could confirm. Joe opted to share his dressing room with fellow cast members, and didn’t want to stay alone there.

The Haunted Olympia Theatre

The Olympia Theatre in Dublin, a place that has illuminated the city with countless performances, is also steeped in spine-tingling ghost stories and paranormal encounters. 

This historic venue holds more than just memories—it harbors the supernatural. These ghostly tales continue to add a layer of mystery to the theater’s rich history, reminding us that sometimes, the spotlight isn’t the only thing that lingers on the stage.

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References:

Ghosts, Glitz and Glamour: A Brief History of The Olympia Theatre, Dublin | Independent.ie 

Olympia Theatre | Haunted Dublin, Ireland | Spirited Isle

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Isla de Pedrosa – the Haunted Island

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The haunted Isla de Pedrosa was a place of isolation. First for sailors with exotic diseases, then as a children’s sanatorium for those suffering from strange afflictions. In the later years it has been thought to be haunted by those isolated on the island that took those unwanted by the rest of society.  

Off the coast of Cantabria, the Isla Pedrosa sits as a dark spot on the blue ocean. The island has become known as Isla Embrujada, or the haunted islands because of the strange things that are said to have taken place there.

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Isolated places were in old times used as a precaution to illnesses since the time of the Black Death and often deserted islands close to the ports were used to hinder any diseases from oncoming ships. These places are called lazarettos, taken from the Bible story about the man that rose from the dead. The most famous Lazaretto is perhaps the haunted Poveglia Island in Venice.

Lazaretto: Isla de Pedrosa was for a long time used as a lazaretto for ships that came from exotic places to quarantine and prevent bringing any illness into port.

In the 19th century, Isla de Pedrosa took on a new role as a place to house sailors and other individuals suffering from exotic diseases from 1834 to help battle the diseases like yellow fever from America for instance as well as smallpox, tuberculosis, cholera and leprosy. The isolation of the island made it an ideal location for quarantine, protecting the mainland from potential outbreaks. It is said that during this time, many tragic events occurred on the island, leaving behind a haunting presence that still lingers today.

In the first decade of the 20th century it was converted from a lazaretto into a maritime children’s sanatorium. It could house over 200 children from almost half of Spain by 1910. First and foremost it was in an effort to combat tuberculosis. It wasn’t the only illness though and it operated until 1989. 

The Haunting Legends of Isla de Pedrosa

One of the most chilling aspects of Isla de Pedrosa’s history is the abundance of haunting legends that surround the island. Many locals and visitors alike have reported eerie encounters and unexplained phenomena, contributing to its reputation as a haunted place.

Among the abandoned buildings on Isla de Pedrosa, there is one that stands out as particularly haunted – the abandoned theater. This theater was once frequented by the sick individuals who were quarantined on the island, and it is said that their spirits still linger within its decaying walls.

The Haunted Theatre: One of the places that are said to be more haunted than other, is the theatre found on Isla de Pedrosa that are now not in use and just left abandoned.

Visitors to the theater have reported hearing disembodied voices and footsteps, as well as seeing apparitions moving across the stage. Some have even claimed to witness performances happening in the theater, despite its state of abandonment. The ghostly presence in the theater adds to the island’s eerie atmosphere, leaving visitors with an unforgettable experience.

The Bird Girls on Isla de Pedrosa

Another haunting legend of Isla de Pedrosa involves the so-called Bird Girls. These two sisters were said to have lived on the island during the time it served as a quarantine facility sometimes in the 1960s. They were born with a rare disease called progeria that made them somehow look like birds. 

This appearance led superstitious people to speculate that their conditions were caused by the devil himself.

The Strange Illnesses: After being used as a base for quarantine, they started to isolate children with strange diseases, like the Bird Girls. Here is a picture of Alfonso XIII visiting Isla de Pedrosa in 1914.

According to the legend, the Bird Girls were isolated from society and hidden away on the island and they tragically died very young, perhaps because of their affliction. Visitors to Isla de Pedrosa have reported seeing the ghostly figures of these sisters roaming the shores, their deformed bodies reminiscent of bird-like creatures. The presence of the Bird Girls adds a layer of mystery and intrigue to the island’s haunted reputation.

People Experiencing Paranormal Activity

There are plenty of people that claim to have experienced something paranormal on this island. A paranormal seeker named Anita Lauda claims to have seen spirits of children coming towards them accompanied by a nurse after an Ouija board session. 

Today’s Isla de Pedrosa

In present times, Isla de Pedrosa is mostly abandoned, with only a few buildings still in use. Some of these buildings now house juvenile prisoners and serve as a reintegration center. The island’s dark past and haunted reputation make it an eerie and unsettling place for those who reside there.

Despite its haunting atmosphere, Isla de Pedrosa continues to attract visitors curious about its mysterious history. People from all over the world come to explore the abandoned buildings and soak in the eerie ambiance that surrounds the island. Isla de Pedrosa serves as a reminder of the past and a testament to the power of legends and folklore.

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References:

Cómo vivir la esencia de la fiesta medieval de San Fermín
Halloween: Spain’s most haunted places – The Local