Anthony Heads is an English mentalist, writer, and performer who moved to Sweden in 2001. With more than 20 years of experience in the entertainment industry, both as a scriptwriter and live performer, he has become one of Scandinavia’s most recognized names within realistic paranormal entertainment and modern mentalism. He is also the creator of Stockholm Ghost Walk – Stockholm’s largest ghost walk experience.
In Practical Paranormal Performance, Anthony Heads condenses more than a decade of professional stage experience into one comprehensive guide for mentalists, magicians, storytellers, and bizarre performers who wish to explore the world of realistic paranormal performance. Whether you are a hobbyist or a full-time professional, this book offers valuable insight into creating believable and immersive paranormal entertainment for paying audiences.
This is not a book about Halloween magic or spooky tricks added to a traditional magic show. Instead, Anthony explains how paranormal performance must be approached as an entirely different style of entertainment, requiring its own mindset when scripting, staging, blocking, and performing. The goal is to create authentic experiences where audiences willingly suspend disbelief and step into “The Bubble” – a carefully constructed atmosphere where the impossible feels real.
Filled with practical advice gained from hundreds of live performances in front of thousands of spectators, the book covers topics such as audience expectations, morality and ethics, scripting, pacing, movement, stage persona, and acting techniques. Anthony also shares his experience with the business side of performing, including pricing structures, contracts, technical riders, and how to build a successful career as a solo paranormal entertainer.
Practical Paranormal Performance is not a collection of tricks or effects. It is a serious and thoughtful guide to understanding paranormal entertainment as its own unique art form. For performers who want to create powerful, believable, and emotionally engaging experiences, this book provides invaluable real-world knowledge from one of the field’s most experienced practitioners.
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“Practical Paranormal Performance belongs in the library of every mentalist, bizarrist, and mystery performer. Highly recommended.” - Neal Scryer
“Practical Paranormal Performance perfectly fulfills the promise of its title. Anyone who wants to learn about paranormal performance, or who wants to do it, needs to read this book.” - Larry Hass
