'So...you wanted to see the theater, did ya?' The curtain is set to rise on Kings Island's all-new Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare, coming in 2026

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'So...you wanted to see the theater, did ya?' The curtain is set to rise on Kings Island's all-new Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare, coming in 2026

August 28, 2025

MASON, Ohio (Aug. 28, 2025) – The stage is set for guests to be ushered into a new but familiar chapter in Kings Island’s history as Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare will make its debut next spring. Located at the site of the park’s original Phantom Theater dark ride, the quirky characters and chaos from the original return, along with modern technology, enhanced scenic elements and expanded storytelling.  

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.

In total, 26 interactive scenes feature added multi-sensory effects like wind and sound, hidden Easter eggs throughout and a grand on-stage musical finale with all cast members. Manufactured by Sally Dark Rides, the leader in indoor family dark ride experiences, Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare is a true nod to the original that made its home at Kings Island from 1992 – 2002.  

“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 of Kings Island. “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.”

Last Chance to Boo Blast

Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare will be located in the same structure as Boo Blasters on Boo Hill. As preparations for the new ride begin immediately after Labor Day, guests will have until this Monday, Sept. 1 to take their final rides on Boo Blasters before Phantom Theater: Opening Nightmare takes the stage in April of 2026.

Guests are invited to keep up with the ride’s construction progress and all the latest news on Kings Island’s Facebook, Instagram and X social media channels.

Kings Island’s Best Season Pass Offer Ever

For the ultimate fall experience, guests can now purchase a 2026 Gold Pass for just $115 (plus applicable taxes and fees) and enjoy unlimited visits to Halloween Haunt. In addition, when guests purchase the 2026 Gold Pass through Sept. 1, they also receive unlimited visits in 2026 to Kings Island, Soak City Water Park and unlimited visits to more than 40 Six Flags theme parks across North America. This unprecedented offer is available online only at visitkingsisland.com.

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