MASON, Ohio (Aug. 28, 2025) — Kings Island is preparing to lift the curtain on a ghostly encore. The park announced Thursday that Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare will debut in April 2026, bringing back a fan-favorite cast of quirky characters with a modern twist.
The new attraction will occupy the same location as the park’s original Phantom Theater dark ride, which thrilled guests from 1992 to 2002. This reimagined version blends cutting-edge technology, enhanced scenery, and expanded storytelling, promising both nostalgia for longtime fans and new thrills for first-time visitors.
The story begins on a stormy night as Maestro, the theater’s resident organist, prepares for a long-awaited performance. When lightning strikes, it unleashes mischievous “ghost notes” from his mighty pipe organ, setting chaos loose across the theater. With guidance from the ever-reliable head usher No Legs Larry, guests will board “enchanted opera boxes” and use spellbound flashlights to capture the rogue notes before the show can begin.
The immersive ride will take visitors through 26 detailed scenes, from haunted hallways and dressing rooms to a fiery boiler room and the grand stage itself. Beloved performers including Houdelini, The Great Garbanzo, Hilda Bovine, and Lionel Burymore return in animatronic form, joined by a new character—Arpeggio, Maestro’s mischievous cat. The finale will feature a musical performance with the entire cast, complete with multi-sensory effects such as wind, sound, and hidden Easter eggs.
Manufactured by Sally Dark Rides, the attraction is designed to honor the charm of the original while elevating the experience for a new generation.
“Families who have visited Kings Island will remember how special the original Phantom Theater was, and they’ve always wanted it to return,” said Tony Carovillano, park manager. “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.”
Before the new attraction opens, fans have one last chance to experience its predecessor. Boo Blasters on Boo Hill will officially close after Labor Day on Sept. 1 to make way for construction.
Kings Island encourages guests to follow the ride’s progress and updates on the park’s official Facebook, Instagram, and X pages.
