Seating Chart
“The Lobero Ghost Project”
The intrepid Matt “Muahaha” Mazza, of the Santa Barbara Sentinal spent a few chilling hours in the Lobero Theatre in his own “Blair Witch Project” to bring us a spooky Halloween story.
Read Matt’s experience in the story below, and here.
The Lobero has stood on its current spot for 140 years, racking up thousands of live performances, hours of raw emotion in theatrical performances, energy spent in musical performance… seems like an ideal playground for spirits.
The Lobero Theatre staff and stage crew make allowances for our, how shall I say, ‘bodily-challenged’ guests, by leaving a light on all night, every night – the Ghostlight.
First, and most commonly encountered, is former stagehand and night watchmen, Harry Pideola. Harry passed away in the theatre, and continues to make his presence known to staff here alone after dark, stomping around or playing tricks. The other, Dr. Frank Fowler, a founding member of the Alcahema Theatre Group, has been known to turn up in the crowd or wings of the stage in his top hat and tails, eager to share in that curtain call.
We’ve embraced the philosophy behind the ghostlight and the “spirits” of the Lobero for a select group donors, who keep the lights on and the “muses” at home in this historic hall. (Learn more about this crucial group, and email Brandon Mowery if you have any questions.)
As we stand on the edge of the Lobero’s next 140 years, it’s fun to look back, and see what memories remain–some, more viscerally than others… I’m looking at you Harry.
Happy Halloween!
*originally posted October 30, 2013
