The Best Investigation: A Night at The Plaza Theatre

The Plaza - My Favourite Investigation

Paranormal investigations are always unique, but every now and then, you experience one that stays with you—one that validates everything you believe about the supernatural. My night at The Plaza Theatre in Romsey was that kind of investigation. It had all the elements that make for an unforgettable experience: historical connection, intelligent responses, and moments of undeniable energy that reinforced why I continue to seek the unknown.

the Plaza: A Location Steeped in History

The Plaza Theatre, nestled in the heart of Romsey, is a venue that exudes history. Originally opened in 1931 as a cinema, it has since evolved through different incarnations, including a bingo hall, before becoming a theatre. Throughout its transformations, the building has accumulated layers of memories, emotion, and, perhaps, spirits still lingering from its past.

From the moment I arrived, I sensed there was something special about the location. The ground itself felt significant, though I couldn’t immediately pinpoint why. Later, I learned that the site had a historical railway connection before the theatre was built—possibly explaining the strong residual energy.

The Build-Up: Signs and Names

Led by Paula and Steve from DS Haunts, our investigation began with an energy assessment. Almost immediately, I felt discomfort and had two names—‘Jenkins’ and ‘Derek’—impose themselves into my consciousness. The name ‘Jenkins’ would later become a crucial link in our investigation. Alongside this, I experienced a strange sensation as if part of my face was irregular, as though I was channelling someone with a facial condition or injury.

Before entering the main auditorium, I shared the name ‘Jenkins’ with a fellow investigator. Soon after, we discovered a sponsorship board in the theatre foyer listing the name Jenkins—was this the connection I had been led to?

The Auditorium Vigil: Intelligent Responses

The main auditorium, with its beautiful Art Deco features and deep theatrical history, became the setting for our first group vigil. Some team members reported seeing shadowy movements in the upper rows, while others noted strange sounds and shifting energy in the space. Though I personally didn’t witness any full apparitions, the atmosphere was thick with presence.

Using electronic communication devices, we initiated contact. What happened next reinforced my belief in the authenticity of paranormal investigations. We engaged in an interaction with two entities identifying as ‘Dotty’ and ‘Bill.’ Their responses were not just random flickers but intelligent, specific answers that matched our questions. Cold drafts and unexplained noises seemed to punctuate our session, adding to the credibility of the encounter.

When we later discovered that Dotty had been a real person, known for sitting in the top rows and who had passed just four years before, it gave emotional weight to our experience. It wasn’t just a ghostly interaction—it felt personal, as though we had genuinely connected with someone who still loved The Plaza.

The Shocking Revelation: Bill Jenkins

One of the most astonishing moments of the night came when we found a photograph in the Green Room of a man named Bill Jenkins. The image showed him with a distinct facial droop—exactly like the sensation I had experienced at the start of the night. To discover that Bill had played an instrumental role in securing The Plaza for the RAODS theatre group made this revelation even more compelling. Was Bill still watching over the venue he fought so hard to protect?

Unexplained Footsteps and the Final Signs

Our investigation continued into the dressing rooms and back areas, where we encountered one of the most chilling phenomena of the night: loud, distinct footsteps above us. With the stage off-limits to everyone during the investigation, there was no logical explanation for what we heard. Even the Theatre Team looked shocked, unable to attribute the sound to anything ordinary.

These moments—where history aligns with spirit activity, and where personal experiences match evidence—are what make an investigation truly extraordinary.

Why This Was My Best Investigation

What made this night at The Plaza Theatre my best investigation? It was the perfect combination of compelling evidence, personal validation, and emotional connection. The investigation wasn’t just about unexplained noises or flickering lights—it was about real names, real history, and real communication. The intelligent responses, the sensation of channeling Bill Jenkins, the historical verification of Dotty’s presence, and the unexplained footsteps all came together to form a night I will never forget.

Paranormal investigations often leave us with more questions than answers, but sometimes, they offer rare clarity. This night at The Plaza was a perfect example of that. It was an experience that reaffirmed my belief that spirits are indeed among us, waiting to tell their stories to those willing to listen.

Have you ever had an investigation that changed the way you see the paranormal? Share your experiences—I’d love to hear them!