"Goosebumps: Phantom of the Auditorium" Comes to First Stage

Get Ready for Spine-Tingling Musical Theater Fun This Halloween Season!

If you're looking for the perfect blend of thrills, chills, and family-friendly entertainment this October, First Stage's production of "Goosebumps: Phantom of the Auditorium" is exactly what you need. Based on R.L. Stine's beloved horror series, this musical adaptation brings the iconic goosebumps experience to the stage in spectacular fashion.

In the show, horror fans Brooke and Zeke are thrilled to star in a mysterious production called "The Phantom." Despite old legends claiming the play is cursed, they're not the least bit frightened—until strange, eerie messages start appearing and a masked menace begins disrupting rehearsals. As supernatural events escalate, they begin to wonder: could there really be a ghost haunting their school, determined to stop the show?

This thrilling musical races to solve the mystery while delivering the classic chills that made R.L. Stine's series a phenomenon. It's the perfect introduction to theater for young horror fans and a nostalgic treat for adults who grew up with the books.

Event Details

When: October 11 - November 2, 2025
Where: Marcus Center's Todd Wehr Theater, Milwaukee
Runtime: Approximately 90 minutes (including brief intermission)
Age Recommendation: Perfect for families with kids ages 8-18, plus thrill seekers of all ages

Show Times & Special Events

The production features multiple performance options with exciting add-ons:

Opening Weekend (October 11-12)

• Saturday: 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM

• Sunday: 1:00 PM and 3:30 PM

• All shows include pre-show Halloween parties

• Select performances feature opening weekend celebrations and a talk-back with book writer John Maclay

Special Opportunity: Pay What You Choose

• Friday, October 17 at 7:00 PM

• Reserve by calling (414) 267-2961

• Includes pre-show Halloween party

Continuing Performances

• Multiple weekend showtimes through November 2

• Each performance includes a pre-show Halloween party

What Makes This Production Special

The Creative Team

The musical features a book and lyrics by John Maclay with music and lyrics by Danny Abosch, who also handled orchestrations and arrangements. Originally commissioned by Oregon Children's Theatre and First Stage, the production is directed by Jeff Frank, ensuring top-tier theatrical quality.

Double Cast Magic

First Stage is presenting this show with two complete casts of young performers—the "Thrills Cast" and "Chills Cast"—giving twice as many talented young actors the opportunity to bring these characters to life. Each cast brings their own energy and interpretation to the spooky tale.

Pre-Show Halloween Parties

Every performance includes a pre-show Halloween party, adding extra value and excitement to your theater experience. It's the perfect way to get into the spooky spirit before the main event.

Planning Your Visit

Location: Marcus Center's Todd Wehr Theater
Address: 325 W. Walnut St., Milwaukee, WI 53212

Tickets: Available through First Stage's box office
Phone: (414) 267-2961
General Information: (414) 267-2929

Why This Show is Perfect for October

"Goosebumps: Phantom of the Auditorium" hits the sweet spot of Halloween entertainment—scary enough to be thrilling, but not so frightening that it will traumatize younger audience members. The familiar Goosebumps brand ensures parents know what to expect, while the musical format adds an extra layer of entertainment value.

The timing couldn't be better, running through the entire Halloween season and into early November. Whether you're looking for a family outing, a unique date night, or want to introduce young people to live theater, this production offers something special.

Tips for Your Visit

• Arrive early to enjoy the pre-show Halloween party

• Consider dressing in costume to enhance the Halloween atmosphere

• Check the First Stage website for any special events or themed nights

• Book early for popular weekend showtimes

• Take advantage of the "Pay What You Choose" performance if budget is a consideration

Looking Ahead

First Stage's 2025-2026 season continues with "Peter Pan and Wendy" (February 20 - March 22, 2026), making this Goosebumps production part of an exciting year of family theater.

Don't miss your chance to experience the spine-tingling fun of "Goosebumps: Phantom of the Auditorium." Whether you're a longtime fan of R.L. Stine's work or new to the world of Goosebumps, this musical adaptation promises to deliver thrills, chills, and plenty of theatrical magic perfect for the Halloween season.

Ready to get your goosebumps on? Contact First Stage today to secure your tickets for this hauntingly good time!