What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The 17th Door in Buena Park, California, is celebrating its 10th anniversary as an extreme haunted attraction. Known for pushing the boundaries of traditional haunted houses, the 17th Door offers a unique experience that combines intense scares with innovative design. The attraction, which originally opened in Tustin in 2015, features a series of themed rooms that guests navigate in small groups. Each room presents a different challenge, from a barber shop where real haircuts are given to a room that spins 360 degrees. The attraction is designed by Heather and Robbie Luther, who have continuously evolved the experience to balance extreme and fun scares. This year’s storyline takes place in a fictional prison, Perpetuum Penitentiary, where guests encounter various intense scenarios. The attraction is open on select nights through November 2.
Why It's Important?
The 17th Door represents a significant evolution in the haunted attraction industry, offering a more immersive and interactive experience than traditional haunted houses. By incorporating elements such as live actors, technical innovations, and real physical interactions, it sets a new standard for what a haunted attraction can be. This approach not only attracts thrill-seekers looking for a more intense experience but also pushes the industry to innovate and explore new ways to engage audiences. The success of the 17th Door highlights a growing demand for experiential entertainment, which could influence other attractions to adopt similar strategies.
What's Next?
The 17th Door plans to continue expanding its offerings, with a new escape room in development. Although the planning and permitting process has taken longer than expected, the team is committed to bringing this new experience to life. Additionally, the attraction's creators are considering releasing more behind-the-scenes content, following the success of their reality TV show, 'Spook Show 17.' As the attraction continues to grow in popularity, it may inspire similar experiences across the country, further transforming the haunted attraction landscape.
Beyond the Headlines
The 17th Door's approach raises questions about the ethical boundaries of entertainment, particularly in how far attractions can go in creating fear and discomfort. The use of real physical interactions and intense scenarios challenges traditional notions of safety and consent in entertainment. As these types of attractions become more popular, there may be increased scrutiny and regulation to ensure the safety and well-being of participants.
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