Last night, I had the opportunity to attend Phasmagorica at Heritage Square Museum, and let me just say—it’s unlike anything else I’ve experienced.

From the moment I arrived, I knew this wasn’t going to be your typical immersive event. I was greeted by The Archivist, a fascinating guide who set the tone right away. They welcomed us, checked us in, and even tested each participant for psychic abilities with vintage-style cards that felt pulled straight out of another era. It was a playful but intriguing way to begin the night and it immediately put me in the mindset of stepping into the unknown.

From there, our small group was led across Heritage Square, moving between the historic Victorian homes until we reached the chamber. Inside, we met Smith, the creator of Phasmagorica. Smith is both a magician and an immersive world-builder, and you can feel that combination of skills throughout the experience. The atmosphere was intimate and carefully designed, but without any sense of staged trickery—this was not theater. This was about genuine attempts to connect with something beyond.

Each of us was invited to select a “trigger item” from a collection of drawers filled with haunted artifacts, each accompanied by a note about its origin or history. These items became our tools for communication. With pendulums, scrying mirrors, and tarot cards, we attempted to reach across the veil. The experience was raw, vulnerable, and deeply personal. No actors. No magic effects. Just an honest space to see what might happen when we opened ourselves to the possibility of spirit contact.

Afterward, we were invited on a guided tour of the Hale House, one of the museum’s historic homes. Our guide, Melissa, was wonderful—warm, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about the history of the space. It was the perfect way to ground the evening after such an intense experience.

What I loved most about Phasmagorica is that it straddles that delicate line between immersive art and true paranormal exploration. It’s a séance-like gathering that allows you to step outside the everyday and lean into mystery. Each participant’s experience is unique, and that makes it feel truly special.

If you’re curious about the paranormal—or just want a one-of-a-kind night you’ll never forget—I highly recommend checking this out while you can.

Phasmagorica runs select nights September 19–28, 2025 at Heritage Square Museum in Los Angeles.

📍 3800 Homer Street, Los Angeles, CA 90031

🎟️ Tickets and more info: www.twilightdisturbances.com