Kings Island is preparing to welcome Phantom Theatre: Opening Nightmare which will open at the park next Spring replacing the Boo Blasters ride.
Quicky characters and chaos will once again return to the park as the ride will be built on the same location as the park’s original Phantom Theatre dark ride but this time it’ll be getting a modern upgrade with technology, scenic elements and expanded storytelling all improved.
The comedic and fast-paced family adventure begins with a dark and stormy night, setting the tone for the grand (and ghostly) re-opening of the haunted Phantom Theater. Inside, a long-awaited performance by Maestro, the theater’s resident organist, is set to begin. During the storm, a lightning strike unleashes the ghost notes – mischievous musical spirits that wreak havoc across the theater – from Maestro’s mighty pipe organ.
With the help of head usher No Legs Larry, guests will take the role as a member of his team and ride in “enchanted opera boxes,” utilizing special spellbound flashlights to capture and return the ghost notes to the organ so the performance can begin on time.
Along the way, the enchanted opera boxes travel through fully built dimensional scenes, including backstage areas, haunted hallways, dressing rooms and a fiery boiler room as they meet other performers who are ready to take the stage. From animatronic forms of Houdelini and the Great Garbanzo to Hilda Bovine and Lionel Burymore, the Phantom Theater’s beloved crew returns, getting caught in the chaos while guests simultaneously search for the ghost notes. New surprises await guests around every corner, including the introduction of Arpeggio, Maestro’s furry feline friend.
The ride will feature a total or 26 scenes with multi-sensory effects like wind and sound along with hidden Easter eggs throughout and a grand on-stage musical finale.
Sally Dark Rides are the manufacturers behind the ride and the company aim to give it a true nod to the original ride which operated at the park from 1992-2002.
Tony Carovillano, Park Manager Kings Island said:
“Families who have visited Kings Island will remember how special the original Phantom Theater was, and they’ve always wanted it to return. While paying homage to the original ride, Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare’s modern and advanced features will help create new memories and stories for all who take their seat inside this amazing experience.”
