Sunday, October 11, 2009

Haunt review: Darkwood Manor



Although it's not close, Darkwood Manor is easily the best haunt within driving distance of Roanoke. Five out of five stars.

I'll have to write this review carefully, because I don't want to give away any of Darkwood's surprises or tricks. But I can review it in generalized terms.

First, Darkwood is a good blend between well-trained actors and very detailed props. Even on the night when I attended, when they were low a few actors, they kept the scares coming at a pretty good clip. Second, the scares were varied - some were very tongue in cheek, others were very disturbing, many came out of nowhere, and all were well-executed (pun intended). Third, Darkwood's a great value for the money. Not only was I treated to a top-notch haunt, but the "pre-show" when waiting in line was very good (disturbing film reel and very talented line control actors), as well as paranormal investigators at the exit of the haunt. Finally, great ending! I won't spoil the surprise for you, but you'll know where the end is. It was impressive enough that I hung around for half a minute to watch it go. Highly recommended.

Next week - first view of Baby Charlie's costume!

1 comment:

  1. I own this haunt and I am a native Roanoker, used to work for the Science Museum downtown as a traveling science performer. My mother got her start as a professional actress, director and producer at the Roanoke Barn dinner theatre. I am honored to be recognize by my Roanoke family. Thank you. You were so kind to say good things about my haunt and I hope to see any of my Roanoke brothers and sisters at Darkwood! November 7 and 8th a passenger train will be traveling from Roanoke to the train station in front of my house (where I live not my haunted house)where I have a costume shop. Come see me!

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