Dark Woods Haunt Actor Training 2025 with Bart Butler and Michael Caneva from Terror in the Corn

Top Haunted House Pros to Lead Training Event for Aspiring Actors and Crew in Natchitoches

Aug 4, 2025 | Haunted Attraction

Ready to unleash your inner monster—or help bring haunted attractions to life from behind the scenes? Timber Ridge Adventure Park is excited to announce a one-of-a-kind training event for future haunt actors and crew, happening August 29-30 at the Holiday Inn in Natchitoches.

This year’s event features two legends from Colorado’s nationally acclaimed Terror in the Corn.

First up is Michael Caneva, Production Manager, whose haunt career started in 2010 with the home-grown Mournful Manor and has since included leadership roles at some of the country’s most celebrated haunted attractions. Michael now oversees nearly 200 actors at Terror in the Corn, which has been ranked Colorado’s top haunt since 2020 and has held national rankings of #1, #3, and #2 from 2021–2023. Under his direction, Terror in the Corn has also earned awards for the Scariest Haunt and Most Immersive Cast in the Western Region from TheScareFactor.com.

Joining him is Bart Butler, a true industry veteran with over 33 years of haunt experience. Bart has run and collaborated with haunted attractions across the country, bringing his creative vision and expertise to every project. Since 2022, he has served as Show Director for Terror in the Corn, elevating the art of immersive horror and helping maintain the haunt’s reputation as Colorado’s Scariest Attraction. Bart is also the creator of the web series A Haunter’s Life, giving fans a rare look into the world of professional haunting.

Friday August 29th

- Dark Woods Ghoul School (For Newbies) @ 5:00 PM

Saturday August 30th

- Dark Woods Ghoul School (For Newbies) @ 10:00 AM

Whether you’re dreaming of center stage as a scare actor, want to master creature effects, or are interested in what it takes to run a top-tier haunt, this training is your backstage pass. Learn hands-on tricks, acting techniques, and behind-the-scenes secrets from two of the most respected names in the business.

The event runs August 29-30 at the Holiday Inn, Natchitoches. Space is limited, so grab your spot now—and get ready to haunt like the pros.

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Haunted Attraction Hours

This special nighttime Halloween event runs on Fridays and Saturdays from 7:00 pm to 11pm.

Event & Box Office Hours

Dark Woods operates from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on scheduled nights. The box office closes at 10:00 pm. Guests must arrive before the box office closes to enter.

Chaperone Policy

All guests age 17 or younger must be accompanied by a chaperone age 21 or older with a valid photo ID. One chaperone may supervise no more than three guests age 17 or younger. Chaperones must be present at entry, remain inside the park and be reachable by phone throughout the visit. Unaccompanied minors may be denied entry or removed from the event.

Student Night Oct 31

Halloween belongs to the Demons! NSU students can experience both Dark Woods haunted attractions for just $20 general admission with a valid NSU student ID. Discounted tickets must be purchased in person at the box office on October 31. Bring your crew and end Halloween screaming!