[4] Ghost shows experienced a resurgence in popularity in the 1950s due to the output of horror and science fiction films aimed at the young adult market.
[2][3] The format of a ghost show usually entailed an introduction by a ghostmaster, usually presenting themselves as a medium; this was followed by a series of conjuring and mentalist illusions performed in low light, often with participation from the audience.
The stage show ends with a blackout where the theater is completely dark, and spooks, ghosts, bats, skeletons – luminescent paintings on fishing poles – "fly over" the heads of the audience.
[9] The course of the show saw Peck telling the audience that he was a medium in contact with the spirit world, and integrated eerie sounds and objects appearing to move mysteriously.
[9] As the show's popularity grew, Universal Pictures sued Baker for using Frankenstein's monster in his performances, but eventually came to a contractual agreement with the studio that allowed him to maintain the character as part of the act.
[4][6] In later years, ghost shows placed a greater emphasis on sex appeal and violence, featuring scantily clad female assistants and a focus on illusions involving dismemberment and torture.