This October, history and the supernatural collide in Hallowe’en Revels: Séance and Secrets at the 1897 Poe House. Hosted in partnership with Sweet Tea Shakespeare, the immersive theatrical event promises an unforgettable evening of mystery, suspense, and Victorian-era intrigue. Performances will run Oct. 10 and 11 and 17 to 19, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The story unfolds in the elegant but eerie rooms of the historic Poe House, where audiences will meet Mrs. Poe, a grieving widow desperate to reconnect with her departed husband. To bridge the gap between the living and the dead, she seeks the help of Madame Graham, a celebrated medium whose talents—and tricks—have captivated the county. Guests are invited to step into a world of flickering candlelight, hushed whispers, and spiritual suspense as they participate in a séance that blurs the line between history and haunting.
More than just a ghost story, the production offers audiences a glimpse into the fascinating world of 19th-century spiritualism. In the Victorian era, séances, mediums, and supernatural investigations were popular social entertainments, rooted in both genuine grief and a cultural obsession with the afterlife. Hallowe’en Revels explores not only the allure of these practices but also the skepticism that arose as debunkers and scientists sought to expose fraudulent mediums. This rich historical context adds depth and authenticity to the chilling, interactive experience.
Each 45-minute performance takes place inside the 1897 Poe House itself, offering a rare chance to enjoy live theater within the walls of one of Fayetteville’s most iconic landmarks. With groups limited to just 15 people per show, the setting is intimate and atmospheric, ensuring that every creak of the floorboards and flicker of the lights adds to the tension.
Due to the space restrictions and the immersive nature of the performance, tickets must be purchased in advance for a specific time slot. Tickets are $12.51 and can be purchased online at https://tinyurl.com/42a8dnhh.
Guests are encouraged to arrive at least 10 minutes prior to the start of the séance, as late arrivals will not be admitted once it begins. Visitors should also be prepared to walk, stand, and navigate stairs during the 45-minute experience.
For those seeking even more history, regular daytime tours of the Poe House are available, offering a detailed look at the home and the family who once lived there. For more information on tours, visit the Museum of the Cape Fear Historical Complex website at https://museumofthecapefear.ncdcr.gov/.
This Halloween season, dare to cross the threshold of the Poe House—if you’re brave enough to discover what secrets the spirits may reveal.