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For Its 20th Year, Two New Shows At Eastern State Penitentiary

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Officials says the Eastern State Penitentiary historic site has become a national destination site, and they are celebrating with two new attractions.

Eastern State officials believe their "Terror Behind the Walls" haunted prison experience is now the most popular haunted house event in America.  And according to Philadelphia city officials, the show and other entertainment attractions generate over $1 billion annually in tourist spending.

Now, to celebrates its 20th year, "Terror Behind the Walls" has a new brand and two new attractions that will bookend the show, which runs during the Halloween season.

ESP actors side
(ESP actors show placards displaying the attraction's two new exhibits for its 20th anniversary year. Credit: Karin Phillips)

"The first new attraction, The Gauntlet, is specifically designed to confuse and disorient the visitors," says Jason Olsen, associate director of design services.  "At the end of show, as you get ready to leave, you're going to be part of a large-scale escape."

That second performance is titled "Breakout."

The 20th year of "Terror Behind The Walls" begins September 23rd at Eastern State Penitentiary, 22nd Street and Fairmount Avenue, in Fairmount.

Reported by Karin Phillips, KYW Newsradio 1060

 

 

 

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