Goosebumps: Phantom of the Auditorium Returns to Milwaukee…
This fall, Milwaukee families are in for a frightfully fun theater experience. First Stage is bringing back the hit musical R.L. Stine’s Goosebumps: Phantom of the Auditorium, opening the 2025–2026 season at the Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater. Performances run October 11 – November 2, 2025, with plenty of thrills, laughs, and mystery for audiences of all ages!
A Spooky Story Comes to Life
Based on the bestselling children’s horror series by R.L. Stine, the story follows middle schoolers Brooke and Zeke as they prepare for their school play, The Phantom. What starts as a typical rehearsal quickly turns eerie when strange notes appear and a masked figure begins haunting the stage. The mystery leaves Brooke and Zeke wondering: is the legend of the Phantom true, and could their production really be cursed?
From Page to Stage
First Stage first co-commissioned the musical in 2016 with Oregon Children’s Theater. Since its debut, the show has been performed nationwide, and the studio cast recording featuring Broadway stars has reached more than 20 million streams worldwide. Now, the production returns home to Milwaukee, just in time for Halloween.
“This scary good musical is the perfect fit for families this Halloween season,” said Jeff Frank, First Stage Executive Artistic Director and the show’s director.
Cast and Creative Team
The musical features professional actors Zach Thomas Woods and Karen Estrada, alongside 16 talented young performers split into two rotating ensembles: the Thrills Cast and the Chills Cast. Music and lyrics are by Danny Abosch, while the book and lyrics are by John Maclay, founder of the First Stage Young Company.
Together, the cast and creative team bring a mix of humor, suspense, and toe-tapping songs that capture the spooky spirit of R.L. Stine’s beloved stories.
Halloween Fun Beyond the Stage
Every public performance will feature a pre-show Halloween party, complete with hands-on activities, spooky games, and of course, candy. The festive atmosphere makes this production more than a show—it’s an event families can enjoy together.
Show Information and Tickets
- Dates: October 11 – November 2, 2025
- Location: Marcus Center’s Todd Wehr Theater, Milwaukee
- Run Time: 90 minutes, including intermission
- Recommended Ages: Families with children ages 8–18, plus thrill-seekers of all ages
- Tickets: $24–$45 for most shows
- Special Performances:
- Pay What You Choose: Friday, October 17 at 7 p.m.
- Sensory Friendly: Saturday, October 18 at 3:30 p.m.
- Sign Language Interpreted: Sunday, November 2 at 3:30 p.m.
Tickets are available through First Stage’s website or by calling the Marcus Center box office.
A Must-See for Halloween
With a thrilling storyline, catchy songs, and a festive pre-show celebration, Goosebumps: Phantom of the Auditorium is a perfect way for families to kick off the Halloween season in Milwaukee. Expect chills, laughs, and maybe even a few goosebumps along the way.
About First Stage
Founded in 1987, First Stage is one of the nation’s leading theaters for young people and families. Its productions honor children’s perspectives, highlight diverse voices, and spark meaningful conversations. In addition to performances, First Stage is known for its award-winning Theater Academy and arts-integrated education programs that reach thousands of students each year.
