Immersive Theatre - The Creative Adventurer https://thecreativeadventurer.com A Travel Guide for Exploring the World Mon, 13 Mar 2023 17:17:18 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9.4 https://i0.wp.com/thecreativeadventurer.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/cropped-NewCreativeAdventurerLogo_250x250_v1.png?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Immersive Theatre - The Creative Adventurer https://thecreativeadventurer.com 32 32 171399271 What do I need to know before seeing the Burnt City? A Spoiler-Free Guide https://thecreativeadventurer.com/what-do-i-need-to-know-before-seeing-the-burnt-city-a-spoiler-free-guide/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-do-i-need-to-know-before-seeing-the-burnt-city-a-spoiler-free-guide https://thecreativeadventurer.com/what-do-i-need-to-know-before-seeing-the-burnt-city-a-spoiler-free-guide/#respond Mon, 13 Mar 2023 17:16:35 +0000 https://thecreativeadventurer.com/?p=38951 “They sent forth men to battle, But no such men return; And home, to claim their...

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“They sent forth men to battle, But no such men return; And home, to claim their welcome, Come ashes in an urn.”

― Aeschylus, Agamemnon

As an avid fan and spectator of New York‘s preeminent immersive theatre experience, Sleep No More, when I heard Punchdrunk had a new show in London, I leapt at the opportunity to see the show. The Burnt City is a story of dazzling and haunting story gods and mortals set in a mythical underworld. The overall story takes inspiration from Greek mythology and is set during the Fall of Troy. But this isn’t the fall of Troy you remember, but another take on the classic tale. It is an experience that sends you through dreams and nightmares and suspends, if just for a few hours, your sense of reality and opens your mind wide. So dive in because this is going to be an intense ride…

I’ve read many articles that tell you not to get bogged down in decoding the plot or trying to understand what is happening in The Burnt City. Most of the story’s plotlines are told through interpretive dance scenes. But let’s face it; humans look for meaning in what we see. And I truly believe that by knowing a little more about the characters and overall themes, we can better develop different interpretations of the show as audience members.

My Sleep No More guide has proven extremely helpful for viewers before and after the show. And I wanted to ensure I gave the Burnt City the same treatment! If you’re curious and want clues about how to make the most of your experience, read on. This is the spoiler-free guide, but if you want to know all the secrets and spoilers, you can also check out our complete guide! Choose your fate!

Table Of Contents
  1. What is the Burnt City?
  2. What is Immersive Theatre?
  3. How Much Are Tickets to See the Burnt City
  4. How to Get to the Burnt City?
  5. Arrival
  6. About the Theatre Masks
  7. Accessibility
  8. What to Wear
  9. How to Experience the Show?
  10. 1:1s
  11. The Setting of the Burnt City
  12. Entering the World of the Burnt City
  13. The Story of the Burnt City
  14. Peep Bar
  15. Who to Follow?

What is the Burnt City?

The Burnt City is the newest production from the award-winning theatre company Punchdrunk. The show is an immersive theatre performance that blends contemporary dance and dramatic performances with classical texts. The production occurs inside One Cartridge Place; two enormous warehouses in Woolwich, outside central London. Set inside these warehouses, the company has transformed these once-abandoned buildings into a state-of-the-art theatrical venue. One that uses new technologies to create a cinematic walkthrough of their site-specific sets where you can explore to your heart’s content the world of the Burnt City.

The show has little to know spoken dialogue, and instead, the story is told through modern dance and the powerful yet silent performances of the actors in the show. The lack of words makes the show more of a work of art than a play, allowing viewers to come away with their own interpretation of some scenes and events.

What is Immersive Theatre?

Immersive theatre is a form of performance art that places the audience at the center of the performance. Blurring the boundaries between performer and spectator. In an immersive theatre experience, the audience is not just a passive observer but an active participant in the performance. Unlike traditional theatre, where the action occurs on a stage, and the audience watches from their seats, Punchdrunk demands their viewers to follow the story. You can explore the over 100,00 square feet inside the theatre, discovering secrets and various characters as you go. Pursue whatever grabs your attention. Somewhat of a “chose your own adventure” model of performance art. 

The show itself is three hours long, but the story repeats three times throughout the night. Resulting in 3 hour long “loops”. Each actor follows a distinct loop, with multiple storylines happening simultaneously. This means you can see an entire loop following one character. Then choose another to follow for the next hour, seeing how the characters interact or intersect between the various loops. 

How Much Are Tickets to See the Burnt City

You can buy three different types of tickets directly from the Punchdrunk website; Standard, Premium and VIP. A key piece of information to understand when buying these tickets is they each come with a different “entry time slot.” As mentioned above, there are three loops to view the show; the later you arrive, the less of the first loop you will be privy to. The show starts at 7 pm (or 2 pm when they have matinees.)

Ticket Levels & Distinctions

Standard tickets starts at £45. The earliest time slots tend to be priced slightly higher, and the tickets get cheaper later in the evening. The latest timed entry ticket is 40 minutes after the first loop begins. No matter which ticket you buy, you will always still get to see at least two full loops (aka 2+ hours) of the show no matter when you arrive.

Premium tickets start at £95. These tickets have more availability for early time slots. You also get inside faster with priority entry, which enables you to jump the queue on arrival. With these tickets, you can arrive at 6:30 pm (30 minutes before the start of the show) to go inside and enjoy time at the Peep Bar. The Peep Bar is a part of the show itself, but more on that later. With a premium ticket, you’ll also receive a complimentary coat check and a glass of Da Luca Prosecco.

The last ticket level is the VIP Tickets which start at £135. You get all the same advantages as the premium tickets but receive a secret prelude scene which is exclusive to VIPs. You also get a cocktail included at the bar and get a collectible VIP gift. Truly, I think these tickets are only for die-hard fans looking for that exclusive scene. If you’re a first-timer (and are mega-rich) I think you can give it a skip.

Discounted Tickets

If even the standard tickets sound expensive, well, they are. But there are some discount options available. The Ticket Lottery opens weekly every Thursday, with the draws taking place the following Wednesdays. Tickets are bookable for the week ahead and available in pairs. These tickets are £25 per person. But the arrival times are subject to availability.

Today Tix also offers daily discounted tickets through their app. These tickets are between £35-55, but they are set at the 7:20 pm entry time. Honestly, this is the best option available. Twenty minutes is worth the savings. These were the tickets I bought for the shows when I was in London and I never found I missed anything I couldn’t see again during another loop.

How to Get to the Burnt City?

The Burnt City is located in the neighbourhood of Woolwich, in One Cartridge Place, a two-minute walk from Woolwich station. The new Elizabeth Line stops at Woolwich station, making the journey on the tube all the easier from central London. It only takes about 30 minutes using the Elizabeth line. You can also access the theatre by taking the Thameslink train to Woolwich Arsenal Station, a six-minute walk to One Cartridge Place. From central London, this journey option takes around 50 minutes. But all will depend on where you’re departing from. Be sure to plan your journey in advance to avoid delays since timing at the show is key.

If you are driving, you can use the Woolwich Arsenal Train Station parking lot. From there, it is only an eight-minute walk to the theatre.

Arrival

Please do not arrive more than 15 minutes before your scheduled time slot. They are getting pretty strict about this. But I’d arrive exactly 15 minutes before so you can ensure you get in as soon as possible And be advised they cannot guarantee access to latecomers. Once inside, you’ll need to go through security, get your ticket scanned, coat check and phone lock up. That’s where you are going to spend those extra 15 minutes.

Covid Regulations

As of March 2023, all audiences are still required to wear a Covid mask. If you do not have a mask with you, they will provide one to you upon entry. These are separate from the theatre masks you also need to wear. More on that below.

Coat Check

Since you want unencumbered throughout the show, you must check any bags or large purses before entering the theatre. Although you aren’t required to check your coat, it is HIGHLY recommended.

Coat check is complimentary for VIP and Premium ticket holders and but for the rest, it costs £2 per item. I brought a large, reusable bag with me that I stuffed my coat and purse into to save paying £2 on each of the two items. Small savings, but easy enough to do.

You are also not allowed to bring your phone into the theatre. They are very strict about this. If you don’t want to leave your phone in your checked bag, you have the option of placing your phone into a special lockable pouch. This pouch comes with a strap so you can carry it around with you. The pouch was very comfortable, and I loved being able to explore hands-free with ease.

About the Theatre Masks

In addition to the covid medical mask, all guests are required to wear a theatrical mask throughout the entire experience. The main reason for this is to distinguish the audience from the actors. This mask design is a replica of old Venetian Bauta masks. These Venetian Carnival masks hid the wearer’s identity during the tawdry events of carnival. With secret identities, rich aristocrats could partake in some otherwise frowned-upon activities. While wearing a mask might seem odd, the show aims to make you feel like a voyeur peeking in on the actors. Sporting a disguise allows you to feel braver and perhaps let your guard down. You might feel less inhibited and even step out of your comfort zone…

If you wear glasses, the mask may not fit over the top of them. I know the newer masks in London have additional padding that helps glasses wearers, but it may still prove difficult. If you can get or wear contacts, this might be the best way to fully enjoy the experience.

Accessibility

I was surprised to find upon researching that Burnt City is indeed wheelchair accessible, with only some areas inaccessible with electric chairs. If you have access requirements, including using a wheelchair, you must book an Access Ticket via Punchdrunk directly. You will also be able to book a complimentary Essential Companion ticket. You will need to use the lifts to access the two levels of the show. But there are lifts available.

Content Warnings

The show is restricted 16+, with anyone under 18 required to be accompanied by a responsible guardian. The Box Office will issue a lanyard which they must wear during their visit to be identified to performers and staff. There is a bar that features as part of the performance, which those under 18s can only visit in the company of their parent or guardian.

The reason for this age restriction? Not only is there plenty of distressing scenes with blood, murder, suicide and sex, but also PLENTY of nudity. Also, be aware there are many dark spaces, loud noises, strobe light, and smoke effects throughout the show.

What to Wear

What you wear to see the show is super important. The most critical of which is your choice of footwear! Since the night can be as long as three hours, you want to wear comfortable shoes. I saw so many people there wearing high heels, and by the end of the evening, they were leaning on walls and looked more exhausted than excited. If you are interested in following one character’s storyline, sometimes this requires you literally sprint after them to ensure they don’t get away and you miss their next scene. Without good shoes, you can’t chase after them.

The warehouse of the Burnt City is VERY HOT. So even in the colder months, I would advise wearing a light, breathable outfit. Since you have to coat check anyways, you can always wear something warmer there and leave those extra layers at the coat check. Also, be warned you might get some fake blood on your clothes. This will only happen if you interact with the characters, but it can happen. Don’t worry, though; it washes right out. But some people might not want to change it and choose not to wear their best shoes.

Another thing that is strange but is a MUST is a wristwatch! Since you won’t have your phone to tell the time, a watch will help you gauge how long you have been inside. Or when the first or second loop of the show might end. While getting lost is part of the experience, if you want to get the most out of it, having a watch to tell the time might help you.

How to Experience the Show?

There is no wrong or right way to experience the Burnt City. In a way, the show commands that you leave your inhibitions behind and lose yourself in the performance. But, if you want to create a more cohesive experience, you might follow one character for a whole loop. To learn their story and see how it fits into the overall narrative.

Other viewers will want to immerse themselves in the atmosphere and simply explore the environment, sets and details to uncover hidden clues about the storyline. In the Burnt City there are clues everywhere revealing your presence in the underworld, so you can absolutely hunt for those!

The choices are unless and that makes the experience completely unique every time you go! The biggest piece of advice I have is to leave anyone you come with behind. Leaver them in the literal dirt. Explore the world on your own. It’s a choose your own adventure, after all, not choose someone elses. Plus, talking with your friends about what they saw and experienced after the show is one of my favourite parts. Nothing like a good debrief!

1:1s

If you’ve done even a little bit of reading on Punchdrunk’s productions, you’ll hear over and over again the mention of something called a 1:1. So what is it? The 1:1s are when an actor pulls a random audience member aside and brings them into a private room for a VERY intimate scene that only those two people share. This often involves removing your theatre mask so the performer can get up close and personal and connect with you.

Often the 1:1s are the only part of the play where you might hear the actor’s voice! They are few and far between, so if you get selected, consider yourself very lucky indeed. If you don’t want to interact that closely with them, the actors are very good at respecting if you pull away. But if you are super shy, stay in the back of the groups that follow the actors around so you won’t get picked.

On the other hand, if you want a more intimate experience, go to the front and get close up. But remember always to give the actors their personal space. You can’t touch them unless invited. And some scenes explode with intense movements, and you’ll want to stand back to observe these performances. It’s important to respect everyone’s boundaries, that includes other audience members. Don’t push someone out of the way just to get ahead, the actors will notice, and that isn’t the kind of attitude that will get you a 1:1. And, of course, don’t be a creep.

The Black Masks

Various employees wear black masks during the show. These black masks as security guards protecting the actors, securing the sets and keeping the audience from entering any off-limit areas. If you are using your phone or talking too loudly, they will step in to warn or remove you from the show. They are also there to give you directions if you are lost or need to find a washroom. But they won’t give away any secrets…

The Setting of the Burnt City

The Burnt City is a true tale of two cities, an apt comparison since the show was written just to be performed here in Charles Dicken’s London. And the city where Punchdrunk first originated and put on its first show. When you enter One Cartridge Place, you are stepping into an underworld representing the imagined ancient city of Mycenae (modern-day Greece) and Troy‘s pulsating neon back streets. The two cities occupy one of the two connecting warehouses converted for the Burnt City. Despite being inspired by Greek tragedies, the show is set in a dystopian future, inspired by films like Blade Runner and Metropolis. 

Entering the World of the Burnt City

Once you are through the coat check, you are given a playing card upon entering the Peep Bar. You wait here until your card number is called. Only then can you enter the world of the Burnt City. After your number is called, you’ll be led through a series of museum galleries containing glass cases preserving various artifacts from a fictional 19th-century excavation of Trojan ruins. Each one contains a small excerpt of the story we are about to see performed and the main characters therein.

Reading all the little details can be overwhelming when you just want to get into the show, but not to worry. This guide covers all that information (and MORE), so you’ll have come prepared. The last glass case of the exhibit is smashed. And the object inside is missing. As if something has been stolen or unleashed… And it is at this moment that you are given the choice of two doors to enter through, one leading to Mycenea, the other to Troy.

Mycenae is the smaller of the two buildings, but many of the biggest scenes occur here. Mycenae is a post-war abandoned city. Aged and tattered. While Mycenea feels like an ancient war zone, Troy feels like a throbbing Berlin nightclub. Or a night out on the streets of neon-laden Tokyo.

The Story of the Burnt City

Two main Greek tragedies inspired the intertwining storylines inside the Burnt City. The first is Aeschylus’ Agamemnon, and the second is Euripides’ Hecuba. The main plot points from Agamemnon primarily occur in Mycenae, and the characters from Hecuba centre around Troy. But elements from either story intertwine and connect each city’s fate to each other. But more than just a connection between location and character, these stories revolve around the theme of grief and the tragedies that befall both the victor and victim after war.

I’ve outlined a short summary of these classic Greek Tragedies, as I think knowing the source texts is important in interpreting the show. And unlike the Shakespearean inspiration for Sleep No More, Greek Tragedies are much less common knowledge. But I’ve done my best only to discuss the source and not give away any spoilers particular to the Burnt City.

Aeschylus’ Agamemnon

Aeschylus’s Agamemnon is a tragedy that tells the story of the Greek king Agamemnon. Agamemnon’s army was facing a devastating end. On their way to Troy, his entire fleet of ships was met with fierce winds on the seas and were stuck in a purgatorial loop. Agamemnon prayed to the God Artemis, needing a miracle to save his men and his fleet. Artemis told Agamemnon that if he sacrificed his young daughter Iphigenia, the gods would let the fleet cross the seas. Iphigenia was set to wed Agamemnon’s second-in-command, Neoptolemus, but the wedding was only a ruse. Right after the ceremony, Iphigenia is killed by her father. Right before the eyes of her beloved mother, Clytemnestra.

Clytemnestra’s Revenge

After the death of her daughter, Clytemnestra is overwhelmed with grief. With her husband at war in Troy, Clytemnestra takes a lover, Aegisthus and together, they plot revenge. When Agamemnon returns from Troy, he is stabbed by Clytemnestra in the bath and killed for murdering her daughter.

This story explores themes of justice and revenge. But moreover, the power of grief and the ceaseless love of a mother.

Euripides’ Hecuba

The second storyline, which is happening simultaneously, is Euripides’ Hecuba. Euripides’ Hecuba is a tragedy that follows the titular character, Hecuba, after the fall of Troy. Hecuba, once the queen of Troy, has been taken captive by the Greeks and is now a slave. Her daughter is killed by the invading army and Hecuba entrusts her youngest son to her neighbour and supposed ally, Polymestor. But Polymestor has no intention of saving Polydorus. Once Troy falls, Polymestor kills Polydorus and steals their family jewels.

Hecuba’s Revenge

Hecuba finds out her son has been murdered and flies into a murderous rage. Hecuba tricks Polymestor into meeting with her under the guise of telling him where the rest of the jewels of Troy reside. But along with the help from other enslaved people from Troy, they kill Polymestor’s sons and stab out his eyes. In revenge for her lost children.

Hecuba explores themes of revenge and justice. But primarily studies the horrors that befall women after the war. And the sacrifices a mother must make to seek vengeance for her family.

Hades and Persephone

Watching all of this take place are the gods Hades and Persephone, King and Queen of the Underworld. The myth of Hades and Persephone is one of the most well-known stories from Greek mythology. It tells the tale of how Hades abducted Persephone, the daughter of the goddess Demeter. He stole her away and took her down to the underworld to be his wife. Hades offered Persophone a blood-red pomegranate; unknowingly, she ate six seeds from the forbidden fruit.

Demeter, Persephone’s mother, was devastated by her daughter’s disappearance. She asked Zeus to intervene and had him broker a deal. Because Persephone had eaten six seeds, Zeus decreed that Persephone would six months of the year with Hades in the underworld and the rest of the year with Demeter on earth. This is where we get the changing of the seasons. The barren winter months represent when Persephone is in the underworld, and the fertile spring and summer months represent her joyous reunion on earth with her mother.

Additional Characters

While these two central storylines cover the main characters, a dozen or so side characters make up the rich tapestry of the story of the Burnt City. This includes lovers, other gods, tricksters and more, all with unique and rich narratives. All worth exploring and learning more about for yourself. Since these characters’ stories aren’t based on a pre-existing narrative, they can be a little looser and require more interpretation from the viewer.

Peep Bar

The Peep Bar is where you wait upon entering the theatre, but it also can be reentered through a doorway in the backstreets of Troy. The Peep Bar remains open after the performance (except during matinees.) Often, bands play here, so it’s a lively spot to continue the night with your friends and talk about the show!

Unlike the bar in Sleep no More, which is primarily a place to come, take off your mask, and unwind if you find the show a bit overwhelming, the Peep Bar is also a part of the show itself! Various characters come into the bar to perform a series of dances, and some even might treat you to a song or two! While I wouldn’t recommend spending an entire loop in the bar, if you follow a character and end up here, it’s worth seeing what happens.

Who to Follow?

The question of who to follow is difficult, and I think people will often simply tell you to follow what sparks your curiosity. And while that is good advice, if you’re reading this blog and came in search of guidance, you might be looking for something more informative than that.

My personal and admittedly biased advice? Follow a key/main character from Mycenea for the first loop. Someone like Agamemnon, Clytemnestra, and Iphegina. They will help you piece together the more concrete aspects of that story. For the second loop, follow someone who will take you through the neon streets of Troy, like Polymestor (who has an especially heartbreaking storyline) or Hecuba. And finally, follow a God or other interesting side character for the last loop.

But honestly, if someone interests you or if you want to know more about anything you see, follow that path without question or hesitation. Exploring is all the fun, and with the knowledge from this post, you’ll already be set to discover the meaning behind so many discoveries inside.

If you had the pleasure of seeing the Burnt City and came here looking for answers, I hope you found this guide helpful! If you are seeing it for the first time, I hope you use this as a companion to the show itself. There is so much more to discover by uncovering the layers of this incredibly immersive experience.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post What do I need to know before seeing the Burnt City? A Spoiler-Free Guide first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

]]> https://thecreativeadventurer.com/what-do-i-need-to-know-before-seeing-the-burnt-city-a-spoiler-free-guide/feed/ 0 38951 The Ultimate Guide to Punchdrunk’s the Burnt City, a Tale of Two Dystopian Cities https://thecreativeadventurer.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-punchdrunks-the-burnt-city-a-tale-of-two-dystopian-cities/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-ultimate-guide-to-punchdrunks-the-burnt-city-a-tale-of-two-dystopian-cities https://thecreativeadventurer.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-punchdrunks-the-burnt-city-a-tale-of-two-dystopian-cities/#comments Mon, 13 Mar 2023 15:29:07 +0000 https://thecreativeadventurer.com/?p=34729 “They sent forth men to battle, But no such men return; And home, to claim their...

The post The Ultimate Guide to Punchdrunk’s the Burnt City, a Tale of Two Dystopian Cities first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

]]>

“They sent forth men to battle, But no such men return; And home, to claim their welcome, Come ashes in an urn.”

― Aeschylus, Agamemnon

As an avid fan and spectator of New York‘s preeminent immersive theatre experience, Sleep No More, when I heard Punchdrunk had a new show in London, I leapt at the opportunity to see the show. The Burnt City is a story of dazzling and haunting story gods and mortals set in a mythical underworld. The overall story takes inspiration from Greek mythology and is set during the Fall of Troy. But this isn’t the fall of Troy you remember, but another take on the classic tale. It is an experience that sends you through dreams and nightmares and suspends, if just for a few hours, your sense of reality and opens your mind wide. So dive in because this is going to be an intense ride…

I’ve read many articles that tell you not to get bogged down in decoding the plot or trying to understand what is happening in The Burnt City. Most of the story’s plotlines are told through interpretive dance scenes. But let’s face it; humans look for meaning in what we see. And I truly believe that by knowing a little more about the characters and overall themes, we can better develop different interpretations of the show as audience members.

My Sleep No More guide has proven extremely helpful for viewers before and after the show. And I wanted to ensure I gave the Burnt City the same treatment! If you’re curious and want clues about how to make the most of your experience, read on. But be warned, this guide contains spoilers! There is also a spoiler-free version of this guide if you want to be prepared but want the show’s details left a secret to uncover. Choose your fate!

Table Of Contents
  1. What is the Burnt City?
  2. What is Immersive Theatre?
  3. How Much Are Tickets to See the Burnt City
  4. How to Get to the Burnt City?
  5. Arrival
  6. About the Theatre Masks
  7. Accessibility
  8. What to Wear
  9. How to Experience the Show?
  10. 1:1s
  11. The Setting of the Burnt City
  12. Entering the World of the Burnt City
  13. The Story of the Burnt City & its Characters
  14. Peep Bar
  15. Who to Follow?

What is the Burnt City?

The Burnt City is the newest production from the award-winning theatre company Punchdrunk. The show is an immersive theatre performance that blends contemporary dance and dramatic performances with classical texts. The production occurs inside One Cartridge Place; two enormous warehouses in Woolwich, outside central London. Set inside these warehouses, the company has transformed these once-abandoned buildings into a state-of-the-art theatrical venue. One that uses new technologies to create a cinematic walkthrough of their site-specific sets where you can explore to your heart’s content the world of the Burnt City.

The show has little to know spoken dialogue, and instead, the story is told through modern dance and the powerful yet silent performances of the actors in the show. The lack of words makes the show more of a work of art than a play, allowing viewers to come away with their own interpretation of some scenes and events.

What is Immersive Theatre?

Immersive theatre is a form of performance art that places the audience at the center of the performance. Blurring the boundaries between performer and spectator. In an immersive theatre experience, the audience is not just a passive observer but an active participant in the performance. Unlike traditional theatre, where the action occurs on a stage, and the audience watches from their seats, Punchdrunk demands their viewers to follow the story. You can explore the over 100,00 square feet inside the theatre, discovering secrets and various characters as you go. Pursue whatever grabs your attention. Somewhat of a “chose your own adventure” model of performance art. 

The show itself is three hours long, but the story repeats three times throughout the night. Resulting in 3 hour long “loops”. Each actor follows a distinct loop, with multiple storylines happening simultaneously. This means you can see an entire loop following one character. Then choose another to follow for the next hour, seeing how the characters interact or intersect between the various loops. 

How Much Are Tickets to See the Burnt City

You can buy three different types of tickets directly from the Punchdrunk website; Standard, Premium and VIP. A key piece of information to understand when buying these tickets is they each come with a different “entry time slot.” As mentioned above, there are three loops to view the show; the later you arrive, the less of the first loop you will be privy to. The show starts at 7 pm (or 2 pm when they have matinees.)

Ticket Levels & Distinctions

Standard tickets starts at £45. The earliest time slots tend to be priced slightly higher, and the tickets get cheaper later in the evening. The latest timed entry ticket is 40 minutes after the first loop begins. No matter which ticket you buy, you will always still get to see at least two full loops (aka 2+ hours) of the show no matter when you arrive.

Premium tickets start at £95. These tickets have more availability for early time slots. You also get inside faster with priority entry, which enables you to jump the queue on arrival. With these tickets, you can arrive at 6:30 pm (30 minutes before the start of the show) to go inside and enjoy time at the Peep Bar. The Peep Bar is a part of the show itself, but more on that later. With a premium ticket, you’ll also receive a complimentary coat check and a glass of Da Luca Prosecco.

The last ticket level is the VIP Tickets which start at £135. You get all the same advantages as the premium tickets but receive a secret prelude scene which is exclusive to VIPs. You also get a cocktail included at the bar and get a collectible VIP gift. Truly, I think these tickets are only for die-hard fans looking for that exclusive scene. If you’re a first-timer (and are mega-rich) I think you can give it a skip.

Discounted Tickets

If even the standard tickets sound expensive, well, they are. But there are some discount options available. The Ticket Lottery opens weekly every Thursday, with the draws taking place the following Wednesdays. Tickets are bookable for the week ahead and available in pairs. These tickets are £25 per person. But the arrival times are subject to availability.

Today Tix also offers daily discounted tickets through their app. These tickets are between £35-55, but they are set at the 7:20 pm entry time. Honestly, this is the best option available. Twenty minutes is worth the savings. These were the tickets I bought for the shows when I was in London and I never found I missed anything I couldn’t see again during another loop.

How to Get to the Burnt City?

The Burnt City is located in the neighbourhood of Woolwich, in One Cartridge Place, a two-minute walk from Woolwich station. The new Elizabeth Line stops at Woolwich station, making the journey on the tube all the easier from central London. It only takes about 30 minutes using the Elizabeth line. You can also access the theatre by taking the Thameslink train to Woolwich Arsenal Station, a six-minute walk to One Cartridge Place. From central London, this journey option takes around 50 minutes. But all will depend on where you’re departing from. Be sure to plan your journey in advance to avoid delays since timing at the show is key.

If you are driving, you can use the Woolwich Arsenal Train Station parking lot. From there, it is only an eight-minute walk to the theatre.

Arrival

Please do not arrive more than 15 minutes before your scheduled time slot. They are getting pretty strict about this. But I’d arrive exactly 15 minutes before so you can ensure you get in as soon as possible And be advised they cannot guarantee access to latecomers. Once inside, you’ll need to go through security, get your ticket scanned, coat check and phone lock up. That’s where you are going to spend those extra 15 minutes.

Covid Regulations

As of March 2023, all audiences are still required to wear a Covid mask. If you do not have a mask with you, they will provide one to you upon entry. These are separate from the theatre masks you also need to wear. More on that below.

Coat Check

Since you want unencumbered throughout the show, you must check any bags or large purses before entering the theatre. Although you aren’t required to check your coat, it is HIGHLY recommended.

Coat check is complimentary for VIP and Premium ticket holders and but for the rest, it costs £2 per item. I brought a large, reusable bag with me that I stuffed my coat and purse into to save paying £2 on each of the two items. Small savings, but easy enough to do.

You are also not allowed to bring your phone into the theatre. They are very strict about this. If you don’t want to leave your phone in your checked bag, you have the option of placing your phone into a special lockable pouch. This pouch comes with a strap so you can carry it around with you. The pouch was very comfortable, and I loved being able to explore hands-free with ease.

About the Theatre Masks

In addition to the covid medical mask, all guests are required to wear a theatrical mask throughout the entire experience. The main reason for this is to distinguish the audience from the actors. This mask design is a replica of old Venetian Bauta masks. These Venetian Carnival masks hid the wearer’s identity during the tawdry events of carnival. With secret identities, rich aristocrats could partake in some otherwise frowned-upon activities. While wearing a mask might seem odd, the show aims to make you feel like a voyeur peeking in on the actors. Sporting a disguise allows you to feel braver and perhaps let your guard down. You might feel less inhibited and even step out of your comfort zone…

If you wear glasses, the mask may not fit over the top of them. I know the newer masks in London have additional padding that helps glasses wearers, but it may still prove difficult. If you can get or wear contacts, this might be the best way to fully enjoy the experience.

Accessibility

I was surprised to find upon researching that Burnt City is indeed wheelchair accessible, with only some areas inaccessible with electric chairs. If you have access requirements, including using a wheelchair, you must book an Access Ticket via Punchdrunk directly. You will also be able to book a complimentary Essential Companion ticket. You will need to use the lifts to access the two levels of the show. But there are lifts available.

Content Warnings

The show is restricted 16+, with anyone under 18 required to be accompanied by a responsible guardian. The Box Office will issue a lanyard which they must wear during their visit to be identified to performers and staff. There is a bar that features as part of the performance, which those under 18s can only visit in the company of their parent or guardian.

The reason for this age restriction? Not only is there plenty of distressing scenes with blood, murder, suicide and sex, but also PLENTY of nudity. Also, be aware there are many dark spaces, loud noises, strobe light, and smoke effects throughout the show.

What to Wear

What you wear to see the show is super important. The most critical of which is your choice of footwear! Since the night can be as long as three hours, you want to wear comfortable shoes. I saw so many people there wearing high heels, and by the end of the evening, they were leaning on walls and looked more exhausted than excited. If you are interested in following one character’s storyline, sometimes this requires you literally sprint after them to ensure they don’t get away and you miss their next scene. Without good shoes, you can’t chase after them.

The warehouse of the Burnt City is VERY HOT. So even in the colder months, I would advise wearing a light, breathable outfit. Since you have to coat check anyways, you can always wear something warmer there and leave those extra layers at the coat check. Also, be warned you might get some fake blood on your clothes. This will only happen if you interact with the characters, but it can happen. Don’t worry, though; it washes right out. But some people might not want to change it and choose not to wear their best shoes.

Another thing that is strange but is a MUST is a wristwatch! Since you won’t have your phone to tell the time, a watch will help you gauge how long you have been inside. Or when the first or second loop of the show might end. While getting lost is part of the experience, if you want to get the most out of it, having a watch to tell the time might help you.

How to Experience the Show?

There is no wrong or right way to experience the Burnt City. In a way, the show commands that you leave your inhibitions behind and lose yourself in the performance. But, if you want to create a more cohesive experience, you might follow one character for a whole loop. To learn their story and see how it fits into the overall narrative.

Other viewers will want to immerse themselves in the atmosphere and simply explore the environment, sets and details to uncover hidden clues about the storyline. In the Burnt City there are clues everywhere revealing your presence in the underworld, so you can absolutely hunt for those!

The choices are unless and that makes the experience completely unique every time you go! The biggest piece of advice I have is to leave anyone you come with behind. Leaver them in the literal dirt. Explore the world on your own. It’s a choose your own adventure, after all, not choose someone elses. Plus, talking with your friends about what they saw and experienced after the show is one of my favourite parts. Nothing like a good debrief!

1:1s

If you’ve done even a little bit of reading on Punchdrunk’s productions, you’ll hear over and over again the mention of something called a 1:1. So what is it? The 1:1s are when an actor pulls a random audience member aside and brings them into a private room for a VERY intimate scene that only those two people share. This often involves removing your theatre mask so the performer can get up close and personal and connect with you.

Often the 1:1s are the only part of the play where you might hear the actor’s voice! They are few and far between, so if you get selected, consider yourself very lucky indeed. If you don’t want to interact that closely with them, the actors are very good at respecting if you pull away. But if you are super shy, stay in the back of the groups that follow the actors around so you won’t get picked.

On the other hand, if you want a more intimate experience, go to the front and get close up. But remember always to give the actors their personal space. You can’t touch them unless invited. And some scenes explode with intense movements, and you’ll want to stand back to observe these performances. It’s important to respect everyone’s boundaries, that includes other audience members. Don’t push someone out of the way just to get ahead, the actors will notice, and that isn’t the kind of attitude that will get you a 1:1. And, of course, don’t be a creep.

The Black Masks

Various employees wear black masks during the show. These black masks as security guards protecting the actors, securing the sets and keeping the audience from entering any off-limit areas. If you are using your phone or talking too loudly, they will step in to warn or remove you from the show. They are also there to give you directions if you are lost or need to find a washroom. But they won’t give away any secrets…

The Setting of the Burnt City

The Burnt City is a true tale of two cities, an apt comparison since the show was written just to be performed here in Charles Dicken’s London. And the city where Punchdrunk first originated and put on its first show. When you enter One Cartridge Place, you are stepping into an underworld representing the imagined ancient city of Mycenae (modern-day Greece) and Troy‘s pulsating neon back streets. The two cities occupy one of the two connecting warehouses converted for the Burnt City. Despite being inspired by Greek tragedies, the show is set in a dystopian future, inspired by films like Blade Runner and Metropolis. 

Entering the World of the Burnt City

Once you are through the coat check, you are given a playing card upon entering the Peep Bar. You wait here until your card number is called. Only then can you enter the world of the Burnt City. After your number is called, you’ll be led through a series of museum galleries containing glass cases preserving various artifacts from a fictional 19th-century excavation of Trojan ruins. Each one contains a small excerpt of the story we are about to see performed and the main characters therein.

Reading all the little details can be overwhelming when you just want to get into the show, but not to worry. This guide covers all that information (and MORE), so you’ll have come prepared. The last glass case of the exhibit is smashed. And the object inside is missing. As if something has been stolen or unleashed… And it is at this moment that you are given the choice of two doors to enter through, one leading to Mycenea, the other to Troy.

Mycenae

Mycenae is the smaller of the two buildings, but many of the biggest scenes occur here, including the grand finale. Entering Mycenae is like walking into a post-war abandoned city. Aged and tattered army tents lead your way into the city. Once through the tents, you walk into an enormous room. In the center is a burnt-out anti-tank hedgehog made of rusty steel beams. A memory of wars long past, whose violent history still scars the land. Not only does this make for a dramatic set piece, but it also provides a piece of gorgeous equipment for the actors to dance on. 

Behind the old warzone is the Hinterland. A small, wooded area covered in sand, with antlers spread across the floor and a giant shrine to the god Artemis looming in the darkness. On the far side of the lower level is a caged checkpoint, often occupied by guards and soldiers in green coats. Through this checkpoint is a large set of double doors, which will take you to Troy…

But also dominating the central portion of Mycenae is a large staircase leading up to a gallery that allows actors and audience alike to look down on the room below. This upper level is the old Greecian palace. It serves as the banquet hall and includes a small bedroom and shower stall. There is no way to get from Mycenae to Troy on the second floor, so keep that in mind.

Troy

While Mycenea feels like an ancient war zone, Troy feels like a throbbing Berlin nightclub. Or a night out on the streets of neon-laden Tokyo. Glowing signs dominate the town square, and retro arcade games are found in hidden alleys ways. Somewhere in the distance, the thumping beats of a techno club echo. The town square is surrounded by a cafe, a pottery studio, a department store, Hades’ office and an old well. If you are in the town square during the start of the second loop, you’re in for a pleasant surprise around this well…

From the town square, dimly lit alleyways spread off in all different directions. Leading you to the Bistro, Sake Bar, a seedy hotel, a series of tenement rooms and a secondary, smaller town square home to a neon-lit catholic shrine. There are several staircases around the lower level of Troy which will take up upstairs, where you’ll find the nightclub, a grandiose office inspired by the Godfather, a series of Love Hotel bedrooms, a greenhouse and more tenement apartments.

If you’re a classics nerd, you’ll love some of the hidden details found in the tenement apartments. Each one was inspired by a different character or story from Greek mythology. There are references to the Danaides, Sisyphus, Cronos, Salmoneus, and even the myth of the Cyclops. Many people come to see the Burtn City to simply explore the hidden clues in the sets, and despite these rooms being reasonably devoid of the main action, they are a great place to investigate quietly.

The Story of the Burnt City & its Characters

Two main Greek tragedies inspired the intertwining storylines inside the Burnt City. The first is Aeschylus’ Agamemnon, and the second is Euripides’ Hecuba. The main plot points from Agamemnon primarily occur in Mycenae, and the characters from Hecuba centre around Troy. But elements from either story intertwine and connect each city’s fate to each other. But more than just a connection between location and character, these stories revolve around the theme of grief and the tragedies that befall both the victor and victim after war.

Also connecting both stories together is the presence of the Gods. The Greeks and Trojans believed that their fate lay in the hands of the Gods, who also controlled their destiny. The gods wear these dramatically sculpted breastplates. As if they are marble statues come to life. The gods also work with various citizens of Troy as intermediaries between the gods and the main characters. These characters blur the lines between the realm of the gods and the mortal plane. Delivering messages, conveying prophecies, and dreaming of metamorphosis. 

The outline, as detailed below, combines the original Greek tragedies and the interpretations you see of them in the Burnt City. Major spoiler warnings ahead! 

Aeschylus’ Agamemnon

Aeschylus’s Agamemnon is a tragedy that tells the story of the Greek king Agamemnon. Agamemnon’s army was facing a devastating end. On their way to Troy, his entire fleet of ships was met with fierce winds on the seas and were stuck in a purgatorial loop. The ships attempt to push ahead but always move nowhere. As the show’s loop begins, we find these soldiers slowly being driven mad by that eternal waiting.

The Slaughter of Iphigenia

Agamemnon prayed to the God Artemis, needing a miracle to save his men and his fleet. Artemis told Agamemnon that if he sacrificed his young daughter Iphigenia, the gods would let the fleet cross the seas. Iphigenia was set to wed Agamemnon’s second-in-command, Neoptolemus, but the wedding was only a ruse. Right after the ceremony, still in her wedding dress, Iphigenia is killed by her father in the centre of Mycenea for all to see. Right before the eyes of her beloved mother, Clytemnestra, who watches helplessly from above.

Artemis’ Transformation

In disbelief that Agamemnon could commit such a heinous act, Artemis is devastated by this bloodbath. But Artemis must keep the pack she made with Agamemnon and sends the good winds to help his army take the city of Troy. But Artemis is shamed by her actions, and trying to do right, takes Iphigenia into the Hinterlands. There, Artemis surrounds Iphigenia in antlers (a symbol of the goddess of the hunt and wild animals) and transforms her into an immortal priestess in the form of a great bear. In ancient Greece, a ritual service known as the arkteia (“arktos” = bear) is usually interpreted as a rite of passage preparing the girls for puberty and marriage. 

Clytemnestra’s Revenge

After the death of her daughter, Clytemnestra is overwhelmed with grief. With her husband at war in Troy, Clytemnestra takes a lover, Aegisthus. Aegisthus comforts Clytemnestra, and they horrifically devour a platter of bloody entrails together. In the ancient world, eating entrails meant seeing into the future. They see the king’s death through this prophetic meal and plot revenge. Aegisthus disguises himself as a masseuse wearing a haunting androgynous mask to fool Agamemnon when he returns.

When Agamemnon returns from Troy, he is initially met by his loving wife, who pretends to welcome her adoring husband. Only to lure him back into an intimate love scene with the disguised Aegisthus in their palace throne room. They begin by poisoning him with a lotus flower tincture, and he begins his descent into madness. But poison isn’t violent enough for Clytemnestra, who seeks vengeance for their daughter Iphigenia’s sacrifice. She stabs and kills Agamemnon at his most vulnerable. As he lies dying, his daughter Iphigenia greets Agamemnon as he enters immortality, and they start the loop over once more.

This story explores themes of justice and revenge. But moreover, the power of grief and the ceaseless love of a mother.

Euripides’ Hecuba

The second storyline, which is happening simultaneously, is Euripides’ Hecuba. Euripides’ Hecuba is a tragedy that follows the titular character, Hecuba, after the fall of Troy. Hecuba, once the queen of Troy, has been taken captive by the Greeks and is now a slave. 

When we enter the world of the Burnt City, Troy has yet to fall. Agamemnon is still on his way. Hecuba has a prophetic vision about the death of her youngest son Polydorus. She entrusts her youngest son to her neighbour and supposed ally, Polymestor, to keep him safe. She also intrusts Polydorus with the family jewels. As they do so, the army of Myceneans arrives.

The Fall of Troy & the death of Polyxen

As Agamemnon, alongside his men, enter the city, Troy has fallen to the Greeks. Since it took the sacrifice of his daughter Iphigenia to take Troy, Agamemnon requires a similar sacrifice of Hecuba and the death of her youngest daughter Polyxen. But Polyxen will not become a victim of this war and opts to kill herself rather than be taken prisoner and murdered by the enemy. She slits her throat and is hung up in the town square for all to see. Including her lover, Macaria. After Polyxena’s death is propelled into a grief-stricken ritual before gathering the strength for revenge.

Polydorus & Polymestor

Grief-stricken at witnessing her daughter’s death, Hecuba staggers through the streets of Troy in search of Polydorus. Polydorus was supposed to be in the care of Polymestor, the club owner and somewhat kingpin of Troy. But Polymestor has no intention of saving Polydorus. Once Troy falls, Polymestor lures Polydorus into his menacing office, where they play fight, and Polymestor feeds the young boy some drugs to weaken and kill him.

A golden icon of a half man half bull is always looking over the office. This is the god Moloch, who is associated with child sacrifice. And that is precisely what Polymestor does; he kills young Polydorus as a sacrifice to the gods. He is rewarded by taking the precious jewels once belonging to Polydorus. Then he stuffs the body of Poludorus into a trunk and has it carted away. But Polydorus awakes in this underworld of living death and is transformed into a fury who stalks the city in search of revenge.

Apollo and Cassandra

Cassandra is Hecuba’s only living daughter, and she is possessed by the power of prophecy. The “gift” was given to her by the God Apollo, who was entranced by her beauty. He gave her this gift to win her love but was subsequently rejected. Apollo was furious and turned the gift into a curse, as no one would ever believe her prophesies. After her sister’s death, Cassandra is given to Agamemnon as a gift from Troy. Cassandra can see the fate of Agamemnon; if he returns home, he will be murdered. She tells him this prophecy, knowing she will not be believed. She lures Agamemnon back to Greece, where he meets his death at the hands of Clytemnestra.

Hecuba’s Revenge

Hecuba finds her son’s dead body and slowly begins to lose her mind. All her children were dying and lost all around her. Being betrayed by almost everyone, Hecuba turns to the gods for revenge. She stalks Polymestor, and with the help of the spirits, Polymestor is lured into a ritualistic dance. Hecuba has tricked him into this trap and blinds him when the dance reaches its feverish peak. Hecuba has finally succeeded in getting the revenge she so desired. But she stands hopeless, and even revenge cannot soothe the pain of grief. She wanders off to pray, and the loop starts once more.

Hecuba explores themes of revenge and justice. But primarily studies the horrors that befall women after the war. And the sacrifices a mother must make to seek vengeance for her family.

Hades and Persephone

Watching all of this take place are the gods Hades and Persephone, King and Queen of the Underworld. The myth of Hades and Persephone is one of the most well-known stories from Greek mythology. It tells the tale of how Hades abducted Persephone, the daughter of the goddess Demeter. He stole her away and took her down to the underworld to be his wife. Hades offered Persophone a blood-red pomegranate; unknowingly, she ate six seeds from the forbidden fruit.

Demeter, Persephone’s mother, was devastated by her daughter’s disappearance. She asked Zeus to intervene and had him broker a deal. Because Persephone had eaten six seeds, Zeus decreed that Persephone would six months of the year with Hades in the underworld and the rest of the year with Demeter on earth. This is where we get the changing of the seasons. The barren winter months represent when Persephone is in the underworld, and the fertile spring and summer months represent her joyous reunion on earth with her mother.

The cycle of life and death

The myth of Hades and Persephone has been interpreted in many different ways, but it is often seen as a metaphor for the cycle of life and death. The entire show is a continuous loop of life and death, neverending.

The Grand Finale

The final scene takes place in Mycenea and is a living embodiment of the Flemish painting, the Fall of the Damned, by Dirk Bouts, painted in 1470. A copy of this painting can be found on the wall of Hades’ office, cementing the idea that Hades himself has trapped us and the characters here. The loops we are watching are a form of purgatory. And the characters perform for us as we weigh in on the guilty and the innocent watching this last judgment.

Dieric Bouts, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Additional Characters

While these two central storylines cover the main characters, a dozen or so side characters make up the rich tapestry of the story of the Burnt City. This includes lovers, other gods, tricksters and more, all with unique and rich narratives. All worth exploring and learning more about for yourself. Since these characters’ stories aren’t based on a pre-existing narrative, they can be a little looser and require more interpretation from the viewer.

Peep Bar

The Peep Bar is where you wait upon entering the theatre, but it also can be reentered through a doorway in the backstreets of Troy. The Peep Bar remains open after the performance (except during matinees.) Often, bands play here, so it’s a lively spot to continue the night with your friends and talk about the show!

Unlike the bar in Sleep no More, which is primarily a place to come, take off your mask, and unwind if you find the show a bit overwhelming, the Peep Bar is also a part of the show itself! Various characters come into the bar to perform a series of dances, and some even might treat you to a song or two! While I wouldn’t recommend spending an entire loop in the bar, if you follow a character and end up here, it’s worth seeing what happens.

Who to Follow?

The question of who to follow is difficult, and I think people will often simply tell you to follow what sparks your curiosity. And while that is good advice, if you’re reading this blog and came in search of guidance, you might be looking for something more informative than that.

My personal and admittedly biased advice? Follow a key/main character from Mycenea for the first loop. Someone like Agamemnon, Clytemnestra, and Iphegina. They will help you piece together the more concrete aspects of that story. For the second loop, follow someone who will take you through the neon streets of Troy, like Polymestor (who has an especially heartbreaking storyline) or Hecuba. And finally, follow a God or other interesting side character for the last loop. Characters like Hades, Kronos and Ascalaphus are all immensely fascinating.

But honestly, if someone interests you or if you want to know more about anything you see, follow that path without question or hesitation. Exploring is all the fun, and with the knowledge from this post, you’ll already be set to discover the meaning behind so many discoveries inside.

If you had the pleasure of seeing the Burnt City and came here looking for answers, I hope you found this guide helpful! If you are seeing it for the first time, I hope you use this as a companion to the show itself. There is so much more to discover by uncovering the layers of this incredibly immersive experience.

Happy Travels, Adventurers!

The post The Ultimate Guide to Punchdrunk’s the Burnt City, a Tale of Two Dystopian Cities first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

]]> https://thecreativeadventurer.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-punchdrunks-the-burnt-city-a-tale-of-two-dystopian-cities/feed/ 8 34729 An In-Depth Guide to the Layout of the McKittrick Hotel, Inside ‘Sleep No More’ New York City [2022 UPDATED] https://thecreativeadventurer.com/sleep-no-more-an-in-depth-guide-to-the-layout-of-the-mckittrick-hotel/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=sleep-no-more-an-in-depth-guide-to-the-layout-of-the-mckittrick-hotel https://thecreativeadventurer.com/sleep-no-more-an-in-depth-guide-to-the-layout-of-the-mckittrick-hotel/#respond Wed, 13 Jan 2021 15:26:33 +0000 https://thecreativeadventurer.com/?p=20248 If you are here because you are looking for additional information on the goings-on behind the...

The post An In-Depth Guide to the Layout of the McKittrick Hotel, Inside ‘Sleep No More’ New York City [2022 UPDATED] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

]]> If you are here because you are looking for additional information on the goings-on behind the doors of the McKittrick Hotel during ‘Sleep No More,’ you’ve come to the right place. I wanted to write this post to give those curious minds a little more insight into the hotel’s layout. While you can absolutely see the show with no primer in mind and just discover things for yourself, I wanted to put this here for those who might want a better idea of what to expect. Or if you’ve already been to ‘Sleep No More‘ and are interested to know more about the things you missed, this will hopefully provide some understanding as well.

But be warned, there are some SPOILERS BELOW! While this post isn’t super detailed involving the show’s plot, there are some spoilers, so if you want to come in 100% free of any info, don’t read on! I have a spoiler-free guide as well so head on over there if you want a little introduction without the spoilers. But if you want to know a little bit more about the layout of the hotel and maybe where you want to spend your time, this is the post for you!

Guide to the McKittrick Hotel
  1. Arriving at Reception
  2. Manderley Bar
  3. The Elevator
  4. Becoming the Spirits
  5. The Layout of the Hotel

Arriving at Reception

After entering the hotel and dropping off all your worldly possessions at the coat check, you head to the reception desk. There you will get checked in with your ID to match the name on the reservation. The show really starts here as the actor at the reception desk is really pulling out all the strings to imitate a 1930s front desk clerk. They will give you and your group members a playing card. This is the only ticket you will receive for the show so keep it close. Once inside, different card numbers will be called to indicate it’s your time to enter the hotel and the show.

Then a quiet valet, dressed in all black, will guide you inside. You walk up a set of stairs and through a series of narrow hallways that are almost pitch black. I honestly thought for a moment I was going to get lost as I could barely see what was in front of me. Finally, you see a red glowing light ahead of you, as you enter the Manderley Bar.

Manderley Bar

The Manderley Bar is a loud and happening place to be, not at all like the quiet and creepy hallways we just passed through. The room looks like a speakeasy from the 1930s, and the art deco jazz-themed stage is quite dazzling. The stage is set for a three-piece band, and a singer will walk on stage every now and then to entertain the guests waiting to enter the show.

There is a bar where you can get yourself a drink, but unless you entered late, you probably won’t have time to drink the whole thing. There are other guests milling around the bar, and every so often, you will spot someone dressed in 1930s attire, with a fringed dress or slick-backed hair. These actors interact with each other and are there to set the mood and adjust your internal clocks back in time, to the 1930s. Hearing their voices is so strange considering that once you enter the elevator and head further into the hotel, there is little to no speaking at all. Perhaps the juxtaposition of these two environments is meant to shock your system even more.

The Elevator

When your card number is called, you head over to the doors to the elevator. Before going inside, you will be given your Bauta masks and read the rules of the game. No talking, no cellphone use, keep your mask on the entire time and follow the crew’s guidance (they will be wearing black masks). The bellhop guides the group into the extra-large elevator, and it begins to squeak up the shaft. As you travel, the bellhop gives you an excellent piece of advice, “fortune favours the bold.“

When the elevator first stops, the very first person at the back will be let out. Everyone else is held back by the bellhop, and the doors of the elevator close behind them. The rest of us left on the elevator are told that this experience is indeed a solo one, as so brashly demonstrated to us. It is best experienced alone, follow your desires and you will get the most from the experience. The rest of the group is let out on the next floor, and everyone is left to explore the hotel on their own.

Becoming the Spirits

In the film ‘Rebecca‘, from which the name “Manderley” and some of the Hitchcockian influences come from, one of the characters says, “Like all dreamers, I was possessed all of a sudden with supernatural powers and passed like a spirit through the barrier before me.” For our journey, the elevator is our entry into the dream realm, where we become the spirits and the barriers between time, life and death all seem to fade away.

The Layout of the Hotel

There are over 100 different rooms spread across the old warehouse, which has been converted into the McKittrick Hotel. Two sets of stairs are located on the east and west sides of the buildings. These are your access points to explore the other floors. There are bathrooms available on the 5th-floor and in the Manderley Bar (on the 2nd level), and trust me, you more than likely will need to use one, even just to splash a bit of cold water on your face to wake you up from what seems like a dream.

Basement: The Ballroom & Cemetery

The ballroom in the basement is where the largest gathering of the characters will take place. They gather there as a large group twice during their loops. Any character you follow throughout the performance will lead you here at the end of the show as well. At the beginning of the show, we come here to see a ball in celebration of King Duncan‘s battle, and at the end of the show, a banquet takes place where the dark truth is revealed. Off the ballroom, you’ll find a small changing room, a chapel and a little crypt. 

1st Floor: Duncan’s Residence

The 1st floor is where you will find King Duncan‘s study, chapel and bedroom. King Duncan isn’t with us for very long, so this floor is pretty small. The mezzanine is also located up here, where you can look out onto the Ballroom below. 

2nd Floor: The McKittrick Hotel Lobby

The 2nd Floor is where you’ll find the McKittrick Hotel lobby. Dominating the room is a large 1930s-style check-in desk. In front of the desk is a lush sitting room with a piano set against the far wall. Go into the telephone booths and pick up the phones as there is sometimes a surprise on the other end. You can find the lobby’s porter in here sitting occasionally with the three witches.

Throughout the entire floor, you’ll start to take notice of the spiritual talismans which seem to pop up all over the place. There are also markers of time, which are a constant in the set dressing, but they never move, as if to insinuate we are trapped in a loop (which we are).

The Altar

On the other side of the lobby is a small dining room. Against the back wall is a huge pile of salt with a giant taxidermied goat sitting atop it. On the wall is a cabinet filled with a series of smaller salt piles with crossed forks and knives resembling a crucifix. Salt is a symbol of protection against evil and many characters come here in the hopes of escaping the evil which infects the hotel.

3rd Floor: The Residences and Graveyard

The 3rd Floor is where we find a series of residences of various characters from the Macbeth storyline. The Macduff family residence is located on the 3rd Floor. Their rooms are small and cozy, filled to the brim with spiritual trinkets and talismans. In their quarters, you will also find a baby nursery. Walking inside, you’ll see right away it is one of the creepiest rooms in the building, filled with floating headless baby dolls. Take a closer look in the mirror. In the reflection, in the mirror, you’ll see not the room you are standing in, but a completely different set of horrors. This is a bit of theatrical trickery and just one of the ways in which the McKittrick hotel is always trying to fool you.

Lady and Lord Macbeth’s Apartment

On the other side of the floor, we find a supersized room occupied by Lady and Lord Macbeth. Stacked from floor to ceiling on one side are rows and rows of dressers and drawers. The dancers use these stacks of furniture to prance on top of like they are cats, dancing on a hot tin roof. At one end is a grandiose bed and in the center of the room is a claw-foot porcelain bathtub. The bathtub is where one of the most powerful scenes takes place so if you notice one of the actors encircling it chances are you’ll want to stay.

Opposite the dresser wall, are a series of windows looking out onto the small orangerie and walled garden on the other side. Walking out there you will stumble upon a large graveyard. The room is lit with pale, blue moonlight and filled with ruins and statues. The floor is covered in dirt which crunches are you walk through it, echoing as you go through the silence. Only the fearless are brave enough to explore this as it is one of the darkest parts of the hotel. I loved the scene Macbeth performed in here so the brave are truly rewarded for exploring around this place.

4th Floor: Village of Gallow Green

This was my favourite floor, and I probably spent the most time here. This floor is laid out like an entire village, called Gallow Green. The name “Gallow Green” comes from the Paisley Witch Trails, which were another thematic inspiration woven into the threads of ‘Sleep No More’. The Gallow Green was the place where the accused witches were executed. A very haunting name to give to an entire village.

The main street is dark and cobblestoned with shop fronts and houses all along either side. Most of the doors and shopfront can be entered at some point throughout the show. If you find something locked, look a little closer or come back later, and you might find it open.

In Gallow Green, you can find the taxidermist’s shop, Malcolm’s detective agency, a hidden funeral parlour, a speakeasy, a candy shop, an apothecary, and a tailor’s shop. Also, in Gallow Green are several apartments that belong to the residences. Some of them hiding secret passageways to other parts of the street. 

Paisley Sweets

The Paisley candy shop is a favourite for any of those who stop in on it. Inside the backlit shelves filled with glass jars are many traditional British candies. Everything from pear drops, aniseed balls, toffee and humbugs can be found here. The room is even scented with caramel perfume to lure in the audience. Feel free to open the jars and munch on the treats but again, be respectful and don’t just take them all. I remember throughout the show hearing people munching on sweets, and wondering where these were coming from. When I finally found the sweets shop, it was closed, so if you find it open, definitely head inside for a quick pick-me-up. The name “Paisley Sweets” comes once more from the Paisley witch trials.

Hecate’s Bar

The 4th floor is also the place where you will find Hecate’s replica of the Manderley Bar. Hecate is the supreme witch controlling the residences of Gallow Green. This red lit room is a haunting and ruined replica of the Manderley Bar on the 2nd floor. This room is so large, almost suspiciously large. Here is where one of the most shocking scenes takes place with many cast members, drawing a massive group in with them. If you hear techno music blaring from any other part of the 4th floor, head on over here as quick as you can!

Nearby to Hecate‘s bar is her apothecary. This is where the great witch stores all her herbs and medicinal goods. You can really smell the aroma of the dried herbs calling your name from even a few doors down. The woodsy scent of moss and freshly turned earth, drawing you into her lair. 

Taxidermy Office

One of the creepiest rooms on the floor has got to be the Taxidermy Office. This room is filled with stuffed animals peering out almost menacingly at you. In the dim light, their eyes seem to follow you. The drawers in this room are an endless treasure trove you can really get lost in. The stuffed birds found all over the hotel are perhaps a reference to this line in Macbeth, “all my pretty chickens and their dam / At one fell swoop,“. The quote is spoken by Macduff regarding the tragic murder of his family. Taxidermied birds are also a vital piece of set decoration and metaphor seen in the Hitchcock film Vertigo.

The Speakeasy

Taking up the majority of the right side of the street is a ramshackle speakeasy and pool room. The bar is covered floor to ceiling in cardboard boxes and old bloody playing cards are pinned to the walls. A few of the most fantastic dance sequences between the boys take place in this space and well worth exploring when you come across it.

5th Floor: King James Sanitorium & Birch Forest

This floor, which some people call the “hospital,” is in actuality the King James Sanitorium. A lunatic asylum filled with some of the creepiest elements of the show. There is a waiting room, a padded cell, a large ward, a bathroom (for the audience members) and a small office. The largest room is called the “ghost infirmary,” where you find eight wrought iron beds placed against the walls. Although no one stays in these beds for very long the nurses tend to them like they are filled with residences.

Above each of the beds is a crucifix mounted on the peeling white bricks. Every bed is paired with patient charts which you can flip through to discover hidden clues and secrets. The office across the hall is filled with hair samples and hundreds of additional charts. Although this floor is typically not very active, that almost makes it all the more spooky since walking around the silent hospital feels like entering an abandoned building.

The Birch Forest

The other side of the floor contains a maze-like a birch forest. Wandering through it, you will find a large wrought-iron gate that is padlocked throughout different parts of the show. Towards the back of the maze, there is a wooden hut where one of the characters hides.

6th Floor: The Secret Floor

Only those very lucky will be allowed up to the 6th floor. I was lucky enough to be taken up there on my very first visit! By closely following and interacting with one of the nurses towards the later part of the show I was guided up there to an unbelievable experience! I won’t give away what goes on up here since it’s one of the most elusive parts of the show but if you want to read my account of what happened, you can head over to this post.

I hope this post gave you a little introduction and guide to what you will see at the McKittrick Hotel. Maybe it gave you some insights into what you missed when you saw the show or if you are planning a trip, perhaps it will give you some hints on where you might be drawn to exploring.

Happy Travels, Adventurers.

The post An In-Depth Guide to the Layout of the McKittrick Hotel, Inside ‘Sleep No More’ New York City [2022 UPDATED] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

]]> https://thecreativeadventurer.com/sleep-no-more-an-in-depth-guide-to-the-layout-of-the-mckittrick-hotel/feed/ 0 20248 ‘Sleep No More’ – Everything you Need to Know About Visting the McKittrick Hotel [2022 UPDATED] https://thecreativeadventurer.com/sleep-no-more-everything-you-need-to-know-about-visting-the-mckittrick-hotel/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=sleep-no-more-everything-you-need-to-know-about-visting-the-mckittrick-hotel https://thecreativeadventurer.com/sleep-no-more-everything-you-need-to-know-about-visting-the-mckittrick-hotel/#respond Wed, 30 Dec 2020 20:29:11 +0000 https://thecreativeadventurer.com/?p=20171 Methought I heard a voice cry, “Sleep no more! Macbeth does murder sleep” – the innocent...

The post ‘Sleep No More’ – Everything you Need to Know About Visting the McKittrick Hotel [2022 UPDATED] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

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Methought I heard a voice cry, “Sleep no more! Macbeth does murder sleep” – the innocent sleep, Sleep that knits up the raveled sleave of care, The death of each day’s life, sore labor’s bath, Balm of hurt minds, great nature’s second course, Chief nourisher in life’s feast. – Shakespeare’s Macbeth

Sitting here in the dead of winter, during the pandemic, I have time and time again closed my eyes and “dreamt I went to Manderley again…” I am dreaming of the time when I can return to New York and see ‘Sleep No More‘ again.

I had heard about ‘Sleep No More’ from various friends who had gone to see it and just raved about it. But the price tag always made me hesitate. Anyone who has gone to see it is oddly secretive about the experience. Therefore, I found it hard to validate spending $100+ per ticket when no one would tell me anything about it! But finally, after much back and forth and some encouragement from my friend, we bought our tickets. And I can safely say it was the best money I ever spent!

While I don’t want to spoil the experience for anyone, there are a few things I wish I’d known before walking into the doors. So if you’re curious and want a few clues as to how to make the most of your experience, then read on. This post is spoiler-free but I do have an additional guide with some spoilers. This is for those who want a more in-depth review of my experience.

Guide to Sleep no More
  1. What is 'Sleep No More'?
  2. Buying Tickets & When to Arrive
  3. About the McKittrick Hotel
  4. What's with the Masks?
  5. What to Wear
  6. Accessibility
  7. Be Warned…
  8. Strategies for 'Sleep No More'
  9. More Tips
  10. Arriving at the Hotel
  11. A Brief Summary of the Story

What is ‘Sleep No More’?

‘Sleep No More’ is an interactive and immersive stage production. It is loosely based on William Shakespeare‘s Macbeth but set in a 1930’s film noir aesthetic. The show contains almost no dialogue but is filled with interpretive dancing to convey the scenes or stories. Unlike typical theatre, where you sit in one seat for the entire show and watch the plot unfold in front of you, ‘Sleep No More’ acts more like a choose your own adventure. The show takes place in the fictional “McKittrick Hotel,” which has many different levels to explore. There are over 100 rooms where you can follow the action and discover hidden secrets.

The three-hour performance is actually a one-hour loop performed three times. This way you can study the entire show from multiple angles, sometimes literally. You can see what might have been going on in a different part of the hotel while something else totally different is taking place down below.

The entire show doesn’t unfold in a perfectly linear fashion. While some storylines have a beginning, middle and end, others are tougher to put together. It is more like a piece of artwork to be interpreted and discussed. All that being said, it is absolutely one of the most unique experiences you will ever have. All the guests have the option to do whatever they want while they are inside the hotel. You can follow one actor/character throughout the entire hotel discovering their plotline or simple study and interact with the props found throughout the hotel. 

Buying Tickets & When to Arrive

Sleep No More is back in 2022 after being shut down for more than two years due to the global pandemic. There are different options when it comes to buying a ticket; Maximilian’s Guest, Oz’s Guest or a Standard Ticket. All tickets are cheaper during the week rather than on the weekend so if you’re looking to save money definitely go for the weekday tickets. I also find weekdays to have a less boisterous crowd and the space is generally less crowded.

Ticket Options

Maximilian’s Guest tickets cost $314-360 per person! Your ticket includes a glass of fine champagne, a complimentary coat check and a reserved seat inside the Manderley Bar. Oz’s Guest tickets are $160-195 per person and include everything except for the champagne. I don’t know about you but I don’t think any champagne is worth that price! The last option is the standard ticket which costs $114-149 per person. There is nothing included in this ticket except for the entry. But since coat check only costs $4 there really is no reason not to get the cheapest ticket. The reserved table is only a benefit for those who don’t wanna go right into the hotel upon entering. Save your money and opt to go to a bar after the fact.

When to Arrive

Choose the earliest admission when booking your ticket. This means you’ll have the longest amount of time inside the hotel. Even with the earliest admission, go to the hotel to line up 30 minutes before that time. We purchased the standard tickets, arrived about 20 mins early and still got to spend around two and a half hours inside.

Covid Protocols

After booking your tickets, guests will receive an advisement email 24 -48 hours prior to their visit with the latest guidelines and requirements. As of March 7th, 2022, all guests must present a valid photo ID along with proof of full vaccination in the form of a physical or digital COVID-19 Vaccination Card. Guests are required to have received their final COVID-19 vaccine dose at least fourteen days prior to their reservation.

All guests will be provided with a KN95 mask upon entry which is required to be worn the entire time inside. This is worn under your Sleep No More theatrical mask that has been modified to fit on top of the KN95 masks. The sought-after 1-1’s have been altered to follow covid more strict protocols and generally, guests are asked to give each other some space. But since everyone often crowds into certain small areas this often is something that isn’t strictly followed.

Coat Check

You cannot bring anything inside the hotel with you—no phones allowed, no bags, and no coats. Everything MUST be left at the coat check, which is compulsory. If you didn’t get the coat check included in your ticket it costs $4.00 per person. Remember to bring some cash for the coat check as it speeds the check-in process along.

About the McKittrick Hotel

The location of ‘Sleep No More’ takes place inside the doors of the old McKittrick Hotel. The McKittrick Hotel was built in 1939 and was intended to be one of New York’s finest luxury hotels. But before it could open the hotel’s investors lost their capital to the war efforts. The hotel was left abandoned and condemned for over 50 years….or at least that’s the fictional story of the hotel. Ok, in reality, the buildings which are now used for the production were various old warehouses in Chelsea combined and converted just for the show. Over 100,000-square-feet (9,300 m2) were transformed by the Punchdown theatre company to create the great McKittrick Hotel. You can explore five floors throughout the show and a secret sixth floor, which only a few lucky visitors will experience.

How to get there

The hotel is located at 530 West 27th Street, between 10th and 11th Avenue. The nearest subway stop on the C or E train is either 23rd Street or 34th Street. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the hotel. If you are trying to get there by taxi or uber, be aware that 27th street is not a thru-street, so it’s best to get picked up or dropped off a few streets over.

What’s with the Masks?

All guests are required to wear a mask throughout the entire experience. One of the reasons for this is that all the guests wear masks, but the actors do not. Therefore you can tell who is a guest and who is an actor. This design is a replica of the old Venetian Bauta masks, which were designed to hide the wearer’s identity. In ancient Venice, this allowed rich aristocrats to partake in some otherwise frowned-upon activities. While wearing a mask might seem odd, the show aims to make you feel like a voyeur peeking in on the actors. Sporting a disguise allows you to feel braver and perhaps let your guard down. You might feel less inhibited and even step out of your comfort zone.

If you wear glasses, the mask will not fit over the top of them. If you can get contacts, this might be the only way to enjoy the experience (which admittedly feels a little ableist). We’ve tried to figure out how to fit glasses over top of the mask, and it’s virtually impossible or at the very least uncomfortable.

What to Wear

What you wear to see the show is super important. The most critical of which is your choice of footwear! Since the night can be as long as three hours, you want to wear comfortable shoes. I saw so many people there wearing high heels, and by the end of the evening, they were leaning on walls and looked more exhausted than excited. If you are interested in following one character’s storyline, sometimes this requires you literally run after them to ensure they don’t get away and you miss their next scene. Without good shoes, you can’t chase after them.

I also think wearing something breathable and not too warm is helpful. It can get hot inside, and if you’re running around, you don’t want to be wearing a wool cardigan. Since you have to coat check anyways, you can always wear something warmer there and leave those extra layers at the coat check.

Another thing which is a strange one but is a MUST is a wristwatch! Since you won’t have your phone to tell the time, a watch will help you gauge how long you have been inside. Or when the first or second loop of the show might end. While getting lost is part of the experience, if you’re someone who wants to get the most out of it, having a watch to tell the time might help you out.

Accessibility

Sadly, while you ride an elevator up when entering the hotel for the first time, the experience is not wheelchair or walking aid friendly as the elevator is not for public use after that point. So much of the show involves moving around dark, narrow passageways, sometimes very quickly. Accessing the various floors is done by using the steep wrought-iron staircases. If you have a hard time standing for an extended period or need a mobility aid, this might be a challenging outing for you. I really hope they change it over time to make it more accessible, but it seems unlikely since the show has been running for so long. The entire production is also very, very dark, so if you have low vision or claustrophobia, you might also want to give it a miss.

Be Warned…

The show is not just an immersive experience. It is an interactive experience. Actors approach you very closely and may even touch you. They might even pull you with them to another room for the elusive 1:1s. If you don’t want to interact that closely with them the actors are very good at respecting if you pull away. But if you are super shy, just stay in the back or in a group of people. If you are interested in a more intimate experience, go to the front and don’t be afraid of getting close to the actors. But please respect everyone’s boundaries and only touch the actors if they interact with you first and of course don’t be a creep.

There are various employees who wear black masks located throughout the show, these are essentially security guards there to protect the actors and keep the audience from entering any off-limit areas. If you are using your phone or talking too loudly they will step in to warn or remove you from the show. They are also there to give you directions if you to find a washroom.

Strategies for ‘Sleep No More’

Follow an Actor

Personally, I think there are two main strategies you can use to experience the show. The first is to follow one character as soon as you get inside. This allows you to see their storyline from start to finish. This definitely is an excellent choice for first-timers, as it feels like you are following a more linear storyline.

If you are the first to get inside the hotel, all the main characters will be gathered in the basement where King Duncan is hosting a ball. There you can choose an actor who piques your interest and follow them from there. But remember, they move quickly, so be ready to run. If you don’t arrive right at the start of the first loop, make it a point once you enter to find a scene or group of actors and follow whoever interests you. If you don’t see anyone right away, just keep moving, and you will find them soon enough.

Search and Explore

The second way is to investigate. This means more or less ignoring the actors but going off on your own and exploring the entirety of the building. You are allowed to look inside drawers, pull books off shelves and read them. Open doors, find keys to locked rooms. Even crawl through hidden access points. There is so much to explore in the hotel. Every little thing is a clue to the story you are literally living in. It’s not very often you are given carte blanche to be a voyeur, to go through other people’s belongings or snoop inside medical records. So use this change to your advantage. And of course, you can blend a little bit of either strategy together to experience everything the hotel has to offer.

More Tips

Leave Your Friends Behind

While you might feel like you want to stay close with the group you came with, the experience is intended to be your own. Everyone finds their own interests in the show. It’s essential to allow yourself to explore what you are drawn to and your own personal desires. Talking is absolutely banned, so it’s not like you can chat with your friends anyway. If you feel really scared and apprehensive make a plan with whoever you’re with to head inside the first few rooms together and then break away separately for the rest of the evening. This allows you to slowly get used to the atmosphere but then break out on your own.

Follow the Music

Music is a vital part of the show. In fact, it is the only way in which the actors are given any cues. There is no central control room. At only three points in the show, the same music plays in all the different parts of the building. If you feel lost or like you might want to rejoin a large scene, keep an ear to the ground for loud music, and you will surely be lead towards the actors. On the other hand, if you want to get away from the crowds, stick to the more quiet parts of the building.

It’s 18+ for a Reason

All guests attending Sleep No More must be over the age of 18 years with valid ID. Any guest under the age of 18 years old must be accompanied at all times by a ticketed parent or legal guardian. A signed Under-18 waiver must be submitted by the ticketed guardian at time of entry to the house manager on duty. This is because not only does the show depict violence and has a lot of blood and gore there is full frontal-nudity in various portions of the show so you might want to re-thinking bringing the whole family.

Arriving at the Hotel

After arriving at the hotel, your name will be on the guest list. Present your ID and give all your worldly possessions over to the coat check. You will then proceed over to the reception desk, where you’ll receive a playing card. You have no printed tickets. This playing card is the only “ticket” you’ll receive. Depending on your arrival time will determine the number on your card. The earlier you arrive, the earlier you will be let inside, so try to arrive as early as you can. This is as far as I will go in terms of discussing what happens when you enter as this is a spoiler-free post. But if you are interested in reading about the stories which influenced the plot of “Sleep No More’ read on!

A Brief Summary of the Story

I know EVERYONE seems to say its best not to know anything about the show before you go, but I really disagree. While having your own experience and interpretation of what happened is great, just like in appreciating art, sometimes a bit of context goes a long way to helping you on your journey.

About Macbeth 

If you’ve never seen or read Macbeth, this little synopsis will help you out in understanding the scenes you might glimpse in on throughout the show. Macbeth is a general in the army of King Duncan, the King of Scotland. One night he is visited by three witches who prophesize that he will become King of Scotland.

King Duncan announces that his elder son Malcolm will become the new King after his death. Until that time he instructs Macbeth to care and guide him. When King Duncan comes to visit Macbeth’s manors, Lady Macbeth convinces Macbeth to carry out the prophecy and kill Duncan. Macbeth carries out the deed even though he is pained to do so. Malcolm flees in fear of his own life, only to be suspected of the killing, therefore allowing Macbeth to inherit the throne.

Banquo, Macbeth’s best friend and a general in King’s army, was privy to the meeting with the witches and suspects Macbeth. Macbeth has Banquo murdered, but his sons escape. Macbeth is visited by the ghost of Banquo, who haunts him. He meets with the witches once more who warn him that MacDuff, another nobleman in the army, is a danger to Macbeth. And he is convinced he must kill MacDuff. Macbeth has MacDuff’s family murdered and his property sized, but MacDuff himself escapes. The heir to the throne, Malcolm, returns to take back the kingdom against the murderer Macbeth.

Meanwhile, Lady Macbeth is slowly going insane, haunted by the ghosts of her actions. The doctors tell Macbeth she cannot be cured. MacDuff confronts Macbeth and kills him, bringing his head to Malcolm, who hails himself King of Scotland.

About Rebecca

Woven into the Skaespearan plot are elements of Hitchcock‘s haunting gothic romance film ‘Rebecca‘ (which was just made into a modern Netflix film!). The plot of Rebecca concerns a young woman who marries a widow, Maxim de Winter. They return to live at Maxim de Winter‘s mansion called “Manderley“. There she meets the unkind Mrs. Danvers, who dislikes the new bride as Mrs. Danvers she was so close to his previous wife, Rebecca. The new Mrs. de Winter discovers that the previous marriage had been a shame. During a confrontation between the couple, Rebecca fell and struck her head. It might have looked like Mr. De Winters had killed her, so he took the body out in a boat and capsized it to make it look like she drowned. Mrs. Danvers, enraged by the discovery, sets Manderley on fire and kills herself in the blaze.

The story’s central theme is all about guilt and anxiety, as well as love, obsession and power. Throughout the show, keep an eye out for these themes and characters as they appear throughout. The Hitchcockian influences can be seen not only in the plot but in the set decorations and also the music that plays throughout the building. You will hear from time to timepieces from Bernard Herrmann‘s score from the movie ‘Vertigo’. Even the name, the McKittrick Hotel, comes from Hitchcock’s ‘Vertigo’.

Selznick International Pictures, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

About the Paisley Witch Trials

The third and final reference woven into the fabric of the show is the Paisley Witch Trials. These were the last European witch trials, which took place in Scotland in 1697. The witch trials involved accusations from an eleven-year-old aristocratic girl, Christian Shaw, who accused several of her family’s servants of being witches. In the end, seven people were found guilty of witchcraft and condemned to death by her words. The five who were hung were executed in Gallow Green. The town of Gallow Green can be found on the 4th floor of the hotel. Several of the accused men and women who died in the trails can be found wandering those streets. It is rumoured that before Agnes Naismith (one of the accused witches) died, she cursed everyone present at her trial and their descendants. Perhaps that curse still infects the grounds of Gallow Green today…

After the show, you can head up to the Gallow Green rooftop bar to enjoy a few themed drinks. Or you can also choose to stay in the Manderley Bar to enjoy some evening entertainment.

Click here to see more about the experience as a whole and my personal account of the evening!

The post ‘Sleep No More’ – Everything you Need to Know About Visting the McKittrick Hotel [2022 UPDATED] first appeared on The Creative Adventurer.

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