North Fourth Theatre Hosts Immersive Haunted Comedy Show
The production This is a Haunted House blends improv comedy with horror through October 31, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Comedy
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ShortTerror Productions runs an immersive haunted experience at Albuquerque's North Fourth Theatre through October 31, 2026. The show, which launched on October 9, 2026, combines elements of a traditional haunted house, an escape room, and a play.
Why it matters
The creators aim to shift the typical horror experience toward a story-driven and narrative-heavy format. By incorporating improv, the production emphasizes guest participation rather than just jump scares.
A local production team of 30 residents manages the show. Organizers expect to reach capacity for all remaining dates through the Halloween weekend.
The players
Rusty Rutherford
He serves as a director for the ShortTerror Productions team overseeing the show.
Charles Herrera
He co-directs the immersive experience at the North Fourth Theatre.
ShortTerror Productions
This local production company specializes in immersive narrative-driven entertainment.
North Fourth Theatre
Located on 4th Street in Albuquerque, this venue serves as the primary site for the production.
The details
This is a Haunted House forces guests to undergo an orientation process as they navigate the venue on 4th Street. Cast members guide attendees through the experience, with guests required to participate as active actors in the evolving story.
Timeline
October 9, 2026, marked the beginning of the scheduled run.
Thursday is designated as a recurring Splash the Audience night.
October 31, 2026, serves as the final day of the production.
Industry Dynamics
The production follows the established industry pattern set by the rise of interactive theater models like Sleep No More by prioritizing immersive guest interaction over passive viewing. This reflects a broader trend of blurring lines between traditional stage plays and high-engagement amusement.
Attendees should be prepared for active participation in the show during the orientation process. Those wishing to experience the specific Splash the Audience format must plan their visit for a Thursday.
The takeaway
Immersive theater provides a unique alternative to traditional haunted attractions by focusing on narrative and improv. Guests should embrace the requirement to play a role within the show to get the most out of the experience.
Further reading
Discover more local performances on the Albuquerque Comedy page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KRQE 13.
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