Summary:

Before entering the queue line area, patrons were treated to an entertaining introduction, with a nice visual effect. A witch was conducting a séance, sitting at a table with tarot cards spread across its surface. The witch’s face was projected on the head of a mannequin, which made it appear to have natural movements, as it spoke.

Throughout the attraction there were many well-detailed scenes of various themes. In the haunted house, there were multiple levels, so patrons had to walk up and down stairs to get to different areas. In many scenes, it was difficult to tell whether a figure was an actor or a mannequin, which resulted in some great scares. The use of animatronics, custom sound effects / soundtracks & lighting, created a believable atmosphere throughout the attraction.

The tour began with a bellhop leading patrons into a elevator, which was realistically detailed. Mechanical sounds, flashing lights and a herky-jerky motion, simulated a ride in an old elevator. To add to the effect, the numbered floor indicator lights changed, as the elevator “moved” from floor to floor. The Satanic ritual room had a pentagram painted on the floor and a body laying on a table, which was bordered by candles. A woman in a black dress and sharp teeth stalked patrons through the scene. The “Meat Market” freezer scene featured frozen human bodies, as well as a couple of frozen zombie actors. To add to the atmosphere, an air conditioner was running in the scene, to make it cooler. In the school room, there were desks tipped over, animatronic lockers that banged closed and two actresses dressed like demonic school girls. The largest scene was the graveyard. It had a variety of tombstones on either side of a long, twisting path. There was also a funeral scene, with mourners and couple of great surprises. Other scenes included an “Exorcist” bed levitation, insane asylum and many others.

The actors had great make-up jobs and costumes that were consistent with the scenes they were in. Most of the actors were very animated and persistent, while a few of them were more low-key. The majority of them did a great job; however, there were a couple of exceptions. One actress in the house actually said "boo" to me, which I found a little corny and another giggled (not in character) after jumping out of her hiding place.

Overall, the Terror at Skellington Manor crew did a great job. The show was very entertaining. I enjoyed many aspects of this attraction, including the detailed scenes, numerous animatronic props and spirited actors. Considering the overall entertainment value and length of this event, it was definitely worth the price of admission. Be sure to check this one out, if you get the chance.

To find out more about this event, visit:

http://terroratskellingtonmanor.com/