A training school in Turners Hill, Crawley, is teaching a number of actors the art of scaring people in preparation for this year’s Halloween Festival at Tulleys Farm .
As part of the ‘Fear Academy’ course, dozens of actors are being trained in characterisation and physical movement, scare tactics and horror make-up so that their an perfect their roles as vampires, ghouls and zombies .
Stuart Beare from Tulleys Farm said: “We have undertaken a massive expansion this year adding three new scare attractions to create the UK’s first dedicated scream park.”
“To fill the roles we have recruited over 40 new actors to play the part of monsters during the night-time openings.
He added: “We have been overwhelmed by the interest in becoming a monster at Tulleys. We have had enquires from local amateur dramatics groups and seasoned actors who all fancy trying something different.”
“To ensure our guests get the fright of their lives all the actors have gone back to school to learn what it takes to scare people.”
The 40-plus actors are being trained by Porl Matthews who has more than 10 years experience as a monster at famous UK venues including Alton Towers, Warwick Castle and the London Tombs .
The Tulleys Farm Halloween Festival is the biggest of its kind in the UK. Each year the event manages to attract over 50,000 visitors with its wide range of activities, rides and daytime shows .
Ticket prices at night range from £5 for basic admission to £25 for all six rides and attractions, although there are discounts for those who book in advance and online at www.tulleyshalloween.co.uk.
The festival starts with a preview weekend on October 17 and 18, before running day and night from October 24 to November 1.