Original Ghost Whisperer, James Van Praagh, will communicate with the spirits at The Ridgefield Playhouse on April 9

Known as the original "Ghost Whisperer" (the TV show that was based on his abilities and for which he was a consultant), the James Van Praagh bridges the gap between two planes of existence, that of the living and that of the dead, by providing evidential proof of life after death via detailed messages. Since 2011, each of Van Praagh's annual visits to The Ridgefield Playhouse has sold out well in advance with audience members eager to witness his rare abilities. His very natural easy-going style would lead you to believe that Van Praagh is chatting with a friend on the telephone, not communicating messages from the grave.

On Wednesday, April 9, at 8 p.m., at The Ridgefield Playhouse, he will demonstrate his unique talent and do what he does best -- select people from the audience to participate in the calling of the spirits in a one-night-only event. He will be signing copies of his books such as Unfinished Business, Ghosts Among Us and Growing Up in Heaven in the lobby after the show. Copies of the books can be purchased in the Playhouse lobby that evening or at Books on the Common (404 Main Street, Ridgefield). This event is underwritten by Green Rocks Inn and is part of the Hamlet Hub A Whole New You Series with media sponsor i95.1fm The Home of Rock 'n' Roll. Bernard's (22 West Lane, Ridgefield) is offering a special $45 prix-fixe menu, or a free glass of wine with dinner, before this event, when tickets are presented; reservations suggested beginning at 5 p.m.

"I'm clairsentient, which simply means clear feeling. I feel the emotions and personalities of the deceased. I am also clairvoyant", explains Van Praagh. "The first is feeling, the second is seeing, very much like Whoopi Goldberg in the movie, Ghost". James is an expert on the subject of life after death as he has been in touch with his unique feelings most of his adult life. His public popularity began during his appearances on the NBC talk show The Other Side, which focused on paranormal issues. The Los Angeles Times television critic Howard Rosenberg dubbed Van Praagh "spectacular".

James Van Praagh's unique paranormal experiences during the past twenty-five years have been recorded in his best-selling books Talking To Heaven, Reaching To Heaven, and Healing Grief. His fourth book is the proclaimed Heaven and Earth - Making the Psychic Connection. In September 2003, teens were introduced to Looking Beyond: A Teen's Guide to the Spiritual World. In November of that same year, his Meditations with James Van Praagh brought a new awareness to the meditation experience. His newest publication, Ghosts Among Us, was released to critical acclaim in May 2008 and quickly landed on the New York Times Bestseller List and was #1 on Amazon.com Bestseller list.

For tickets ($75; $90 Gold Circle Meet & Greet available by calling the box office at (203) 438-5795), or order online at ridgefieldplayhouse.org. The Ridgefield Playhouse is a not-for-profit performing arts center located at 80 East Ridge, parallel to Main Street, Ridgefield, CT.