To reflect on the variety of immersive and interactive shows we've seen debut in 2024, we spoke to immersive creators, performers and writers from companies including COLAB Theatre, Phantom Peak , Deadweight Theatre and Sleepwalk Immersive to find out their favourite pieces of work from the year. The Manikins: A Work In Progress By Jack Aldisert, Deadweight Theatre June-November 2024 at CRYPT, Kingswood Arts and Studio 55 Photo: Marc Tsang When I first read the prototype script for The Manikins around this time last year, I was bowled over. It took several months and some revisions before it was possible to put it on at CRYPT, but it remains one of my favourite pieces of new immersive work ever. Owen Kingston, Artistic Director, Parabolic Theatre and Bridge Command Manikins is a shining example of how much small-scale immersive theatre can achieve. This show has more inventive ideas and novel approaches to immersing audiences than most shows with 6-8 figure budgets. The unique blurring of lines between the world of the play and the audience's reality makes the show gripping and inescapable, and the emerging gameplay offers a unique form of control that audiences can't experience in larger-scale productions. The Manikins uses its intimate nature as its greatest asset, focusing all of the production's attention on a singular audience member, firmly casting them as the driving force behind the narrative. Where bigger productions lean on a more anonymized approach to audience engagement (such as the masks in Punchdrunk productions, or casting audiences within a role like Phantom Peak or Bridge Command), Manikins examines each audience member's pre-existing identity and personality as a core focus of the experience. It allows the show a sense of focus and personalization that can't be found anywhere else. While it's hard to see how these techniques can be applied to a wider audience base, given time I'm sure that Jack Aldisert and Deadweight Theatre will find a solution that's just as inventive and original as their solo concept. I fully expect big things will be coming from this company in the future, especially as they expand into larger spaces and audience capacities. Danny Romeo, Experience Director, Phantom Peak A mind-blowing weird theatre experience, completely unlike anything else out there. Unparalleled emotional impact, all delivered by two actors and a stage manager in a simply furnished room. Cleverly constructed, thoughtfully delivered and quite literally mind-blowing. I can't wait to see what Deadweight get up to next. Katy Naylor, Voidspace So much of Jack's show was a knockout, but it's the repetition that really got me. I love repetition in art, particularly in music. The Manikins manipulated repetition so boldly that it gloriously fucked up everyone lucky enough to go. Nathan Ess, Muddled Marauders Very rarely do you find a show which successfully breaks your perception of what’s real and what is not. However, Jack and his team at Deadweight seemed to manage to do so with ease. I thought the performers were excellent and the simplicity of the set and tech allowed the fantastic writing to shine. From concept to execution, ‘The Manikins’ is one of the strongest pieces I’ve seen in recent memory and I look forward to seeing more creations from Deadweight. Sebastian Huang, Sleepwalk Immersive Bridge Command By Parabolic Theatre March 2024 - Present in Vauxhall Photo: Alex Brenner Bridge Command is an absolute delight. While it's amazing to see Parabolic's years of hard work pay off, the show itself is more than the sum of its parts and is a powerhouse production within the London industry. The set is gorgeous, the tech is impressive, and the premise of flying a spaceship excites my inner child to no end. But what stands out most to me is the effortless collaboration between players that the show inspires. Whether you've known everyone on your team for years or met for the first time minutes ago, Bridge Command's gameplay demands fluid teamwork. I've played the experience twice, each with different groups, and both times our teams started out as individuals trying to be the hero. But the game quickly sets you on the right track, requiring fluid communication between job roles and rewarding groups who support each other. Both of my teams bonded quickly over the course of the show, and we celebrated our wins and losses as a singular unit, which is an impressive achievement for any immersive production. The scope of the show, which boasts an expansive catalogue of unique missions and a progression system, also seems exciting, but I've yet to experience it myself. Parabolic surely have plenty more surprises in store. Here's hoping that their tenure in Vauxhall is a long one, because Bridge Command is an excellent entry point for new audience members into the immersive industry and could prove to be one of the most important productions in the London immersive scene. Danny Romeo, Experience Director, Phantom Peak The big-budget remake of 2019's magical string and sticky tape predecessor delivers a complete storytelling experience. As you operate stations in a spaceship and interact with performers, every word and every pixel work together to create an experience where your actions matter - but also receive a satisfying narrative - without seeing the joins. Absolutely thrilled to see this show back, with the budget it deserves and as strong as ever. Katy Naylor, Voidspace I think what was achieved in terms of not only tech, but world-building and audience agency allowed me to fall into the role of a comms officer with complete immersion. I found the show to be a good balance of theatre and gaming and with multiple spacecrafts and missions, the draw to return is definitely strong. Sebastian Huang, Sleepwalk Immersive Parabolic being the classic, brilliant Parabolic. A well-designed game given a slab of cash just made it feel so immersive. There was a moment in the med bay (which I don't think we were supposed to be using - sorry gang!) but the scanner just made me giggle with glee. Bertie Watkins, Founder/Director, COLAB Theatre The Key of Dreams By Lemon Difficult April 2024 - Present in Treowen, Wales. Photo: Lemon Difficult This 24-hour horror adventure delivers on every front with a deep storyline that develops hour by hour to a satisfying finale, intense acting from a committed cast and a highly immersive environment. Franco Milazzo, Critic, BroadwayWorld UK Almost overwhelmingly dense world-building and lore to be uncovered in this 24-hour immersive/puzzle/sleuth/weird experience set in a 17c Welsh country house While hardcore clue hunters will love whipping around the place in a frenzy of discovery, what I loved was the opportunity to really get to know characters, absorb the uncanny atmosphere in the bones of the house and throw myself into the action as darkness fell and things grew stranger. Katy Naylor, Voidspace This is what free-roaming immersive theatre should be. A long, carefully crafted, deep-worlded performance that is impressively easy to slip into. The piece is scaffolded by precise, complex, and apparently adaptive dramaturgy that keeps the experience manageable despite the often overwhelming amount of content and the difficulty of portraying Lovecraftian elements in live performance. The actors, though, are the centerpiece of this production. The impressively durational and flexible performances by actors who clearly care deeply about their characters and their relationships with the audience make this show special, and they will stick with us for a long time. Jack Aldisert and Dominika Uçar, Directors, Deadweight Theatre Viola's Room By Punchdrunk May - December 2024 at One Cartridge Place I know it's a cop-out choosing the biggest immersive company (and I think it probably is more of an indication of how little, in my limited opinion, shows came out this year) but I just loved the bit when there was a miniature city with mini moving lights. It was a stand-out moment for me this year when I literally couldn't help but shout - 'wow'. It was a special moment and showed you don't need big epic sets to make an impact (even though that moment probably cost more than an entire fringe show...) Bertie Watkins, Founder/Director, COLAB Theatre The lighting, sound, and set design were all stunning! This show was a wonderful reminder that you can create theatre and art just by creating an environment that feels truthful and grounded. Having no shoes brought me into the experience even more - it was a sensory masterpiece. Serena Lehman, Actor (The Manikins: a work in progress) The whole show felt like you were stepping into another world, the story, the soundtrack, the sensory element, everything was just perfect. Puck, Magician and Actor (Rhythm&Ruse) Phantom peak By The League of Adventure March - December 2024 in Canada Water Photo: Alistair Veryard Consistently the best immersive show in London with continuous bursts of invention and ideas throughout the year. Franco Milazzo, Critic, BroadwayWorld UK Phantom Peak is incredible! An open-world video game mixed with immersive theatre, the perfect recipe for a fun time. Each time I’ve been has been so fun and different, and the characters you meet and learn stories from are all a delight. Puck, Magician and Actor (Rhythm&Ruse) Horizon of Khufu By Excurio October 2023 - December 2024 at Westfield Stratford Photo: Excurio There's a long list of new shows I haven't yet made it to this year yet, but this free-roaming VR experience I did in New York (also in London) left an impression. It takes you on a dreamlike journey into an Egyptian tomb late at night, blending digital historical recreation with interactive storytelling. Simple in design and narrative, but expansive in a way I’ve rarely seen in location-based VR. By the end, you feel like you’ve truly walked/travelled on a real expedition, rather than just crossing a room or two, heightening immersion. And it oozes atmosphere—exactly how my inner child (and adult self) dreams of experiencing and understanding history. Jack Pirie, Director/Creative Director, Elvis Evolution, The War of the Worlds Immersive, Jetpack Odyssey The Great Murder Mystery By The Lost Estate March - September 2024 in West Kensington An incredible retelling of a much loved story, The Hound of the Baskervilles in a theatre dining experience that is best-in-class. The food was an experience in itself and blew my socks off. Honestly, every dish I was excited about before it even arrived at the table. The theatre is brilliantly written, directed & performed. Tom Shannon’s set design is first class and kept the surprises coming. Really was the best night at the theatre I had this year. Neil Connolly, Creative Director, Immersive Everywhere Fight Night By Ontroerend Goes October 2024 at Watford Palace Theatre Photo: Ontoerend Goes Exposing the flaws and hypocrisies of the democratic process through an audience-driven voting-based competition. While political statements were kept out of the picture, OG nevertheless exposed the flaws at the heart of the process that provided an unsettling lesson in the madness of crowds and what it means to 'take back control'. Katy Naylor, Voidspace La Bohème By Bread and Bus Stop November - December 2024 at Safehouse 1, Peckham Photo: Bread and Bus Stop The immersive elements landed the story successfully even for audiences that normally don't connect with opera. Temperature, dynamic movement, spatial elements, and proximity with the performers all brought the audience into the story and created connections with the characters that were more intimate than in typical operatic performance practice. Hannah Gintberg-Dees, Director, Deadweight Theatre This Time (Travel) Will Be Different By Chloe Mashiter June 2024 at Theatre Deli Photo: James Lawson This was an enchanting hour of lo-fi high-concept interactive theatre. One performer (also the creator, the immensely talented Chloe Mashiter) ably led a tightly-packed room through a clever exploration of the logic of timeloops, with lots of time travel jokes (better ones than the clichés you may be tired of by now!). I came away with warm feelings and buzzy thoughts about time travel, and the emotional connections we make in the real world where we (usually) only get to do things once. Tom Black, Co-founder, Bridge Command and Jury Games Where We Meet By Unwired Dance Theatre June 2024 at Theatre Deli Photo: Romain Tissot Using headphones, which allows performers to curate the soundtrack that they send to their free-roaming audience, Where We Meet allows us to understand the inner thoughts and be truly close to the characters. Katy Naylor, Voidspace Unfurl By Bubble Club Photo: Bubble Club Unfurl takes place in Room 2 of Bubble Club, an accessible club night in East London. Hosted by Tilley, Del and Isaac, it mixes art installation, Puffing and Wooling, improv, interactive performance, and open mic. It's immersive, interactive, and utterly unique - consistently the most joyous experience in London. Nathan Ess, Muddled Marauders A Quest For Rest By Ariella Stoian & Mushmoss Collective June 2024 at Theatre Deli Part-game, part-exhibit, part-theatre (my descriptors, not the creators), this was a lovingly-crafted and detailed exploration of energy management and chronic fatigue. It's the most effective example that I have yet encountered of the form of interactive theatre being used to explain concepts that are difficult to comprehend simply through reading or listening. It did all this while remaining charmingly light in tone, and gave me that feeling that immersive work is uniquely-placed to provide: empathy. Tom Black, Co-founder, Bridge Command and Jury Games Uwolnienie By Zenon Fajfer and Kuba Kowalski Numerous dates throughout 2024 at Wrocławski Teatr Współczesny, Wrocław, Poland Photo: Filip Wierzbicki This was an immersive performance inside a proscenium theatre that turned the proscenium space into an immersive, non-traditional performance environment in a clever post-modern deconstruction of the theatre. A boundary-pushing, political challenge to the audience that never lost its sense of humour and delight. I'd never seen anything quite like it before. Dominika Uçar, Director, Deadweight Theatre A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to contribute to this article. For coverage of all the latest immersive experiences coming to London in 2025, follow us on Instagram, X and BlueSky.

Photo: Grant Walker The much-loved Backyard Cinema has returned to London bigger, bolder, and more spectacular than ever with an all-new Christmas experience that promises to celebrate the festive season in true West End style. Celebrating the nation’s most loved festive films, from Elf and Home Alone to Love Actually and The Holiday, this year’s production transforms the movie-going experience into a full-scale theatrical event; a Christmas spectacular that fuses film, music, and live performance into one unforgettable celebration. Photo: Grant Walker Directed by acclaimed Creative Director Stuart Glover (Speakeasy UK Tour & West End featuring Strictly stars Karen and Gorka, Madagascar The Musical, The SpongeBob Musical, We Will Rock You, Footloose), this year’s production transforms the movie experience into a full-scale theatrical event; a Christmas spectacular where live music, performance, and festive nostalgia set the stage before audiences sit down to enjoy their favourite Christmas films. Running until 31st December, Christmas at Backyard Cinema will once again transform a Victorian warehouse space, this time on Tanner Street, London Bridge Backyard’s most central London location to date and transform it into a breathtaking Enchanted Forest Theatre: a hidden world of festive wonder and performance, just moments from Borough Market, Maltby Street and Tower Bridge. Photo: Grant Walker This is Christmas reimagined as pure spectacle. From the moment audiences step inside, they’ll be immersed in a living, breathing festive show — free to wander through scenes of wonder brought to life by West End stars and festive acrobats. The cast includes AJ Jenks (The Buddy Holly Story, Saturday Night Fever, Million Dollar Quartet), Joel Priest (Between the Sheets), Eve Maidwell (A Christmas Carol, Connections The Musical), Aaron Bladen (Cinderella, Sappho, The Three Little Pigs), Madeleine Wilshire (The Grimoire Diaries, Alice in Wonderland, The Vilebites), and viral sensation Matt Kent (@iammattkent – “Turning Classical Music into Pop Songs”). Expect festive cabaret, live music, and secret theatrical moments unfolding before the film even begins. Across three spectacular spaces, guests will encounter world-class vocals, spontaneous performances, and atmospheric bars—all culminating in an unforgettable cinematic finale. Photo: Grant Walker In the Christmas Cabaret Room, expect performances of classic Christmas hits delivered by a talented West End cast of singers and musicians, with vibrant table service that brings the festive spirit roaring to life. Inside The Enchanted Forest, a spellbinding indoor world awaits, made up of towering trees, 20 tonnes of real bark underfoot, and surprise performances around every corner. Tucked among the trees, a cosy hidden cabin and themed bars await, creating the ultimate festive retreat. Finally, guests are led in a joyful carol-singing procession to The Cosy Forest Cinema, a retro-style theatre where it snows before every screening, marking the perfect crescendo to this theatrical journey through Christmas magic. Photo: Grant Walker Creative Director Stuart Glover says: We’re creating a truly theatrical experience, a celebration of Christmas that combines the storytelling of cinema with the joy and energy of live performance. It’s designed to surprise, delight, and completely immerse audiences in the spirit of the season. Founder and CEO of Backyard Cinema, Dominic Davies, adds: It’s been three years since our last Christmas show in London, and we knew we had to come back with a bang. We have a brand-new venue, a brand-new show, and a host of magical surprises waiting to be discovered. This isn’t just a return. It’s a reinvention, and we can’t wait to share it with you. Photo: Grant Walker This year’s film line-up features beloved Christmas favourites, each packed with nostalgia, laughter, and heart: Elf (2003) / Home Alone (1990) / Love Actually (2003) / How the Grinch Stole Christmas (2000) / The Holiday (2006) / The Muppet Christmas Carol (1992) / The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) / Miracle on 34th Street (1994) / The Grinch (2018) / It’s a Wonderful Life (1946). With five screenings daily from midday to 8 pm, including family-friendly matinees, Christmas at Backyard Cinema offers something for everyone - from families and couples to friends and festive work socials. Every ticket includes the full cinema experience plus an hour of live, immersive theatrical entertainment from the moment you arrive - the ultimate way to kickstart Christmas in style. Christmas at Backyard Cinema runs until 31st December 2025 (Closed on 25th and 26th December) at 49 Tanner Street near London Bridge. Tickets are priced from £26.50 and can be booked via backyardcinema.co.uk

From boozy immersive dive bars, to fantastical Christmas adventures and festive three-course meals, here are our recommendations for the best immersive experiences in London this side of New Year's... With the nights drawing in and the temperature beginning to drop, Christmas is fast approaching. While London has no shortage of festive activities, you might be on the lookout for something a bit more interactive and immersive. We've made a list, checked it twice, and these are our picks of London's best immersive experiences this Christmas. From family-friend festive adventures to immersive three-course meals and adults-only parties with Santa, these are the capital's top immersive offerings this Christmas... HUMBUG! Immersive Christmas Dive Bar Photo: Grant Walker Returning for 2025 after a second sold-out festive season, HUMBUG is an immersive adults-only Christmas dive bar experience. Split into two halves, with live music, festive DJs and singalongs following the 2-hour main show, guests need to try and help Santa regain their Christmas spirit in his favourite watering hole alongside a cast of characters including Daphne, the disgruntled dive bar waitress, Johnny, the leader of the in-house band, and Howard the mailman, who's misplaced all of the letters addressed to Santa after one too many cocktails. Expect live music, Christmas cabaret sing-alongs, immersive storytelling, and hidden experiences throughout the venue. Throughout the night, guests can sip on festive tipples from HUMBUG’s ‘Naughty or Nice’ cocktail menu and enjoy festive-themed street food from Bang Bang Burger. Photo: Grant Walker Santa’s been working overtime for centuries and he’s hit breaking point so, of course, he’s back at his favourite dive bar where Christmas cheer (and booze) is available on tap. Along with some of Santa’s closest friends, guests will be tasked with bringing their Christmas A-game, ready to help the big man get his groove back and, as long as they do, everyone will be rewarded with an epic party complete with confetti canons, merriment and festive surprises. Photos: Grant Walker 📍 Waterloo 💰 From £22.00 🕒 18th November - 31st December 2025 🎟️ Book via feverup.com PHantom Peak's Wintermas Photo: Alistair Veryard Hot on the heels of its excellent Halloween season, the town of Phantom Peak is once again getting a festive makeover for its annual Christmas offering, Wintermas. Continuing the show's ongoing story, this festive edition of the platypus-obsessed mining town will have 11 brand-new trails for guests to complete. As ever, last year's Wintermas saw the return of demigod Father Platmas, who vowed to take down JONACO following their imprisonment in a make-shift jail during Phantom Peak's first Wintermas. While the specifics of exactly what's in store for the town this Wintermas are still under wraps, it's safe to assume that the town will be on high alert for the return of the man in purple. To finish all the trails on offer at Phantom Peak, you'll need at least three visits, but a one-off trip is still a great experience, with the various storylines you complete throughout the 4-hour-long experience all getting wrapped up during the closing ceremony. There's also a string of additional activities on offer, including carnival games, a visit to Father Platmas' Grotto to spin the wheel (Don't land on 'Death'!) and the Wintermas Puzzle Hunt for those looking to pack their visit full of extra festive cheer. Photos: Alistair Veryard Step into Phantom Peak's one-of-a-kind Wintermas celebrations, where festive fun meets the usual adventures and mystery of town. Join Mayor Pocket, Dr Winter, and all of your favourite townsfolk as we present a season full of surprises, schemes, shivers, and secrets - a season where the town itself faces the biggest challenge yet. 📍 Canada Water 💰 From £30.00 🕒 21st November 2025 - 18th January 2026 🎟️ Book via phantompeak.com The Nutcracker Noir - Immersive Dining Experience Photo: Matt Crockett Taking over Protein Studios in Shoreditch across November and December, The Nutcracker Noir is the latest production from Secret Theatre and DesignScene. The show combines world-class performances, mischief and theatrical storytelling with a decadent three-course meal, put together by Feast & Fable's Jenny McNeill (Gingerline, Fat Duck). Inspired by Tchaikovsky’s 1892 ballet, The Nutcracker Noir follows the story of Clara, an orphan raised in a fantastical world, as she searches for her long-lost father and finds herself directing her own wild adaptation of The Nutcracker in her quest to save her father’s theatre. Before guests take their seats, there are five interactive spaces filled with captivating performances, hidden surprises and extraordinary characters, and with a cast made up of West End talent with shows like Hamilton, Wicked and Cabaret on their CVs, the show boasts to have some top-tier talent on stage. Behind the scenes, the show is co-directed by Richard Crawford (Secret Theatre's SE7EN / The Great Gatsby) and Gary Lloyd (who's previously worked as the choreographer on shows such as Thriller Live and Heathers: The Musical). The Nutcracker Noir is an epic adaptation of a classic Christmas tale. Guests will be transported into a fantastical, wonderful world with an outrageous dining banquet at its core. Move through a series of immersive worlds to discover the newly created Christmas story of The Nutcracker Noir before taking your seat as the culinary experience unfolds in tandem with the show. Explore and experience rooms, hidden surprises and interact with stunning characters, all designed to bring the adventure to life. Immersed in a vibrant and jubilant feast that intertwines with the action, providing a festive extravaganza of dance, music, food and one hell of a Christmas story. Photos: Matt Crockett 📍 Shoreditch 💰 From £48.00 (Bar Seating) 🕒 25th November - 21st December 2025 🎟️ Book via feverup.com The Great Christmas Feast - Immersive Dining Experience Image: The Lost Estate The Great Christmas Feast is one of London's immersive dining mainstays. Now entering its eighth year, the show has quickly become many people's annual tradition, and for good reason - this immersive production of A Christmas Carol is famed for its world-class storytelling and excellent menu. It's Christmas Eve 1894, and Charles Dickens is opening the doors to his home to guests... Expect to tuck into a three-course meal designed by Ashley Clarke that's described as a 'love letter to Christmas in Victorian London', with choices that include either Rare Breed Beef or Hot Smoked Salmon for starters, Roast Duck Leg or a Pithivier of Shitake & King Oyster Mushroom for main. The dessert is, of course, Christmas Pudding, but alongside it there's a selection of Victorian-inspired cocktails on offer, including the legendary Smoking Bishop, Pear Tree Cup, and Devonshire Punch. David Alwyn (Secret Cinema, Peaky Blinders: The Rise, Jeff Wayne’s War of the Worlds: The Immersive Experience) stars as Charles Dickens in the immersive show that's seen critical acclaim and sold-out performances for the last seven years. Christmas Eve. Charles Dickens – writer, performer, occasional magician – is preparing his famous annual feast at his home near Regents Park. This year is very different. Charles has spent months stalking the City at midnight; locked in his study, weeping and gaffawing at who knows what; ushering vast theatrical machines into his home amid the pre-dawn light. Tonight, you and his other guests will discover why. Tonight, ‘A Christmas Carol’, the greatest festive tale ever told, will be born. Video: The Lost Estate 📍 West Kensington 💰 From £139.50 🕒 14th November 2025 - 4th January 2026 🎟️ Book via christmasfeast.thelostestate.com Wundrful World of Christmas Photo: Wundrful World of Christmas Created by immersive entertainment company Wundr, and produced in partnership with Live Venture Group, Wundrful World of Christmas comes direct from Australia for its UK debut. The experience invites guests on a 50-minute walk-through, theatrical journey to the North Pole, blending rich storytelling, live performance, dynamic animated content, projection screen technology, detailed sets and sensory design to create a magical and interactive celebration of the season. Children and their grown-ups journey through a series of fantastical rooms, guided by a cast of animated characters and real-life actors. They have the chance to meet Santa’s hard-working elves, sort magical mail, and travel skyward in a simulated lift ride to explore a snowy ‘Wundrland’, and enjoy festive tales with Mrs Claus in her cosy cottage. Rounding things off, there's a heart-warming encounter and photo opportunity with Santa Claus himself included in the price (No upselling! It's a Christmas miracle!). Perfect for young believers aged 3 to 8 and their families, Wundrful World of Christmas is a celebration of imagination, wonder and joy, and offers guests a brand-new way to experience the magic of Christmas this festive season. Wundrful World of Christmas is now coming to the UK for the very first time. This 50-minute-long immersive, festive adventure will open in a specially selected venue just moments from Borough Market, transforming one of London’s most historic neighbourhoods into a world of Christmas magic. Children and their grown-ups will journey through a series of fantastical rooms, guided by a cast of animated characters and real-life actors. They will have the chance to meet Santa’s hard-working elves, sort magical mail, and travel skyward in a simulated lift ride to explore a snowy ‘Wundrland’, enjoy festive tales with Mrs Claus in her cosy cottage, and finish with a heart-warming encounter and photo opportunity with Santa Claus himself, a family moment to treasure. Photos: Wundrful World of Christmas 📍 London Bridge 💰 From £22.50 🕒 8th November - 24th December 2025 🎟️ Book via wundr.live/london Fireside Tales Image: Punchdrunk Enrichment The second show to launch at Punchdrunk Enrichment's new permanent venue in Wembley Park, Fireside Tales, is aimed at children aged 7-11, and invites guests to step into a magical world to help preserve the long-held tradition of oral storytelling. As you'd expect, there'll be meticulously crafted sets, plenty of interaction, and the lion's share of the cast's attention is given to younger audience members. Fireside Tales is written and directed by incoming Artistic Director of Punchdrunk Enrichment Steve McCourt with additional material devised by the company. The cast (who will rotate two roles in the production) are Siddiqua Akhtar (A Good Girl's Guide to Murder, BBC/Netflix), Rebecca Clark (who has performed recently with Frantic Assembly and Complicité), Amari Harris (who has collaborated with venues including the Old Vic and Half Moon Theatre in his work as a storyteller and drama facilitator) and Alex Stedman (The Lost Lending Library, Punchdrunk Enrichment; Murder On The Orient Express, UK & Ireland Tour). While Punchdrunk Enrichment was originally founded in 2008 to take the innovative practices of immersive jugganauts Punchdrunk into schools, community and family settings, they became an independent charity in 2021, and have since gone on to create a series of shows, including Enitan’s Game, a production for 7-11 year olds and their family which opened their venue in Brent and Against Captain’s Orders, a family show created in partnership with the National Maritime Museum. Fireside Tales is a new immersive experience for children aged 7-11 and their grown-ups. Step into a magical world where stories flicker like flames and imagination keeps them burning bright. For thousands of years, we have gathered to share tales around the fire. But this tradition is fading, and many stories are at risk of being lost. When a new story arrives — faint as an ember, not brave enough to be told — it needs your help to be heard. Developed with schools, this interactive adventure encourages you to draw, write and share your own stories. Without your care, the fire might fade, be forgotten or take on a dangerous new form. This is a show about the stories we tell, the ones we pass down, and the ones we forget — and what happens when we take the time to listen. Photos: Nina Photography 📍 Wembley Park 💰 From £15.00 🕒 6th December 2025 - 4th January 2026 🎟️ Book via punchdrunkenrichment.org.uk A Merry Misrule Image: Battersea Arts Centre/Wild Rumpus Following the success of last year's family-focused immersive offering, The Holly King and The Oak King, Wild Rumpus returns to Battersea Arts Centre with their latest immersive show, A Merry Misrule. In this brand-new show, audiences will be invited to enter a magical world, venturing through an immersive, theatrical trail, meeting new characters to learn about Yuletide traditions from across Europe. Audiences aged 3+ will be taken on a journey to tackle unruly festive folklore characters that have run amok and restore peace and joy to the holiday season. Alongside A Merry Misrule, Santa is also setting up shop in his very own Grotto at BAC from 6th to 24th December, where little ones can share their Christmas wishes, get their name added to the nice list and receive a gift from the main man himself, creating lasting memories for the whole family at the most wonderful time of the year. After last year’s five-star festive performance, The Holly King and The Oak King, award-winning immersive arts creators Wild Rumpus return to Battersea Arts Centre with a new family adventure. Across Europe, mischievous Yuletide traditions have run riot, and it’s up to YOU to save Winter from chaos. Guided by the rousing ‘Resistance Rabbit’, wander through enchanted lands and meet characters intent on causing disruption to the most wonderful time of the year. Can you join the mission to bring harmony back to the holidays? ​ Photo: Ali Wright 📍 Clapham Junction 💰 From £15.00 🕒 29th November - 24th December 2025 🎟️ Book via bac.org.uk Christmas at Backyard Cinema Photo: Grant Walker Celebrating the nation’s most loved festive films, from Elf and Home Alone to Love Actually and The Holiday, this year’s festive edition of Backyard Cinema transforms the movie-going experience into a full-scale theatrical event that fuses film, music, and live performance. Running until 31st December, Christmas at Backyard Cinema has transformed a Victorian warehouse space, this time on Tanner Street, London Bridge, into a breathtaking Enchanted Forest Theatre: a hidden world of festive wonder and performance, just moments from Borough Market, Maltby Street and Tower Bridge. Expect festive cabaret, live music, and secret theatrical moments unfolding before the film even begins. Across three spectacular spaces, guests will encounter world-class vocals, spontaneous performances, and atmospheric bars—all culminating in an unforgettable cinematic finale. Backyard Cinema returns to London bigger, bolder, and more spectacular than ever with an all-new Christmas experience that promises to open the festive season with a bang! You’ll get to roam freely through the Enchanted Forest and enjoy an hour of immersive entertainment across multiple rooms made up of live music, Christmas Cabaret, festive bars, cosy seating areas and surprise performances. All topped off by a screening of your favourite festive movie. Photo: Grant Walker 📍 London Bridge 💰 From £26.50 🕒 26th November - 31st December 2025 🎟️ Book via backyardcinema.co.uk For the latest news and updates on all things immersive in London, follow us on Instagram 🎅

Photo: Nina Photography New production photography has been released today, giving a first look at the world premiere of Punchdrunk Enrichment’s Fireside Tales, an enchanting interactive adventure for children aged 7-11 and their grown-ups, running at Punchdrunk Enrichment Stores in Wembley Park, Brent, from 6th December 2025 to 4th January 2026. Photo: Nina Photography Fireside Tales is written and directed by incoming Artistic Director of Punchdrunk Enrichment, Steve McCourt, with additional material devised by the company. The cast (who will rotate two roles in the production) are Siddiqua Akhtar (A Good Girl's Guide to Murder, BBC/Netflix; Tartuffe, Birmingham Rep), Rebecca Clark (who has performed recently with Frantic Assembly and Complicité), Amari Harris (who has collaborated with venues including the Old Vic and Half Moon Theatre in his work as a storyteller and drama facilitator) and Alex Stedman (The Lost Lending Library, Punchdrunk Enrichment; Murder On The Orient Express, UK & Ireland Tour). Photo: Nina Photography The creative team includes design by Mydd Pharo (who has designed and directed works for WildWorks, Kneehigh, Shakespeare’s Globe, Royal Court, National Theatre and Young Vic), costume design by Melissa Simon-Hartman (who has collaborated with global icons including Beyoncé and Doja Cat, and whose work has been featured by artists such as Little Mix, Stefflon Don and Wizkid, and appeared in Harper’s Bazaar, VOGUE and GQ), lighting design by Sarah Readman (whose credits include Enitan’s Game, Punchdrunk Enrichment; The Glass Menagerie, Yard Theatre and The Burnt City, Punchdrunk - as Lighting Associate) and sound design by Dominic Kennedy (whose credits include Enitan’s Game, Punchdrunk Enrichment; God’s Dice, Soho Theatre; You Stupid Darkness, Paines Plough). Photo: Nina Photography Fireside Tales is a show about the stories we tell, the ones we pass down, the ones we forget and what happens when we take the time to listen. Audiences are invited to step into a magical world where stories flicker like flames and imagination keeps them burning bright. Developed with schools, Fireside Tales encourages young audiences to draw, write and share their own stories. Fireside Tales run at Punchdrunk Enrichment Stores in Wembley Park until 4th January 2026. Tickets are priced from £15, and can be booked via punchdrunkenrichment.org

Photo: NEON/World Heritage Exhibitions NEON in partnership with Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiques and the Egyptian Museum has announced that Ramses and the Pharaohs’ Gold, a spectacular international exhibition celebrating the reign, power, and legacy of Ramses the Great. Opening 28th February 2026, this major cultural event will be exclusively hosted at NEON at Battersea Power Station as part of its global tour following acclaimed runs in Paris, San Francisco, Sydney, and Tokyo. Ramses and the Pharaohs’ Gold marks a cornerstone moment in the area’s cultural expansion and is anticipated to be one of London’s most unforgettable exhibitions of 2026. Photo: NEON/World Heritage Exhibitions Featuring 180 priceless artefacts and opulent treasures from the reign of Ramses and ancient Egypt, including ornately carved sarcophagi, animal mummies, magnificent jewellery, stunning royal masks, and exquisite amulets the exhibition features many objects that have never before left Egypt. Visitors will encounter the original wooden coffin that once held Ramses II’s mummy as one of the exhibition highlights, offering an extraordinary connection to history. Over 3,000 years old, all of the artefacts in Ramses and the Pharaohs’ Gold have come from museums and historical sites in Egypt and are on loan to the exhibition from Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities. Through immersive galleries and state-of-the-art storytelling, visitors will step into the extraordinary world of King Ramses II, widely known as Ramses the Great. Part of the 19th dynasty, Ramses II ruled Egypt for nearly 67 years and is celebrated as the mighty warrior-king who helped define the height of Ancient Egyptian civilisation. Photo: NEON/World Heritage Exhibitions Known for his extensive monument-building, military strategy and diplomacy, and a vast dynasty of more than 100 children, Ramses remains one of history’s most iconic pharaohs. The exhibition also features an immersive virtual reality experience, transporting visitors deep into Ramses’ legacy from the resplendent Tomb of Queen Nefertari to the monumental temples of Abu Simbel. Ron Tan, Group CEO of NEON, said: We are truly honoured to present Ramses and the Pharaohs’ Gold at NEON at Battersea Power Station. At a time when the world is celebrating the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, this remarkable experience offers a timely and extraordinary journey into one of humanity’s greatest civilisations. By uniting priceless artefacts with immersive storytelling, we bring the wonder of Ancient Egypt to life in a way audiences have never experienced before. As Battersea continues its cultural evolution, we look forward to welcoming London to discover the richness, legacy, and enduring fascination of Ramses the Great through this world-class experience. Dr. Mohamed Ismail Khaled, Minister of Antiquities of Egypt, said: Ramses the Great was a remarkable pharaoh who helped shape the legacy of Egypt. Many of these treasured artefacts have never travelled outside the country before, and London is about to witness something extraordinary. This exhibition provides a rare opportunity for people to come face to face with the world of Ramses in all its glory before they are returned to Egypt and placed at the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum. It is my hope that by discovering the story of Ramses, audiences will be inspired to explore Ancient Egypt further and to deepen their appreciation for its enduring cultural importance. Photo: NEON/World Heritage Exhibitions Ramses and the Pharaohs’ Gold opens at NEON at Battersea Power Station on 28th February 2026. Tickets are priced from £24.90 for Adults, with discounts available for children and seniors. To find out more and book tickets, visit ramsestheexhibition.co.uk/london

Photo: Matt Crockett Immersive Rumours: Hi Richard and Gary. Thanks for speaking with us today. Do you mind introducing yourselves and telling us about what your roles are for The Nutcracker Noir? Richard Crawford: I’m Richard Crawford, and I’m the artistic director at Secret Theatre and DesignScene. My role for The Nutcracker Noir is creator, writer, and co-director alongside Gary Lloyd. Gary Lloyd: I'm Gary Lloyd, and I am the choreographer and co-director of The Nutcracker Noir. IR: Richard, can you give us a brief history of Secret Theatre and some of the company’s past productions? It's been several years since you last staged a public show in London. RC: Absolutely. It all started in New York when I was running the Brooklyn Studio Lab. After having seen some of Punchdrunk’s work just before moving over there, I really wanted to experiment with audience interaction, which culminated in the world stage debut of Edward Scissorhands in 2009. Shortly after that, we established Secret Theatre. We’d often launch shows in London, because that was the place to cut your teeth, but they were always very low-key. You had a much smaller audience size to capture, which made it a little easier. We’ve always been different from the other big companies because we’ve been mobile from day one, which meant that if we had a show designed for an audience capacity of between 100 and 300, it was a lot easier to take it on the road and explore the world, whether that's in Europe, Madrid or Hong Kong - where I've done at least 10 shows over the last decade. Two years ago, we were acquired by DesignScene after I worked on a number of corporate activations with them. Alongside those brand activations, which took us to Cannes Lions and New York, amongst other places, we continued to have commercial ticketed shows with Secret Theatre, including a brand new IP in Hong Kong called Art of Dying, and in Singapore, we launched Last Night at Studio 54. Photo: Matt Crockett IR: How did the idea for The Nutcracker Noir first come about? RC: Over the last few years, I’ve done quite a few dining experiences across Europe and Asia and was trying to think if there was a time and a place to put that vision and really go big on it. Attila Keskin, the owner of DesignScene, and I had been banding around ideas and eventually landed on this one, which is an immersive adaptation of The Nutcracker with amazing food woven into the script as part of the narrative and the evening. This show is really an accumulation of everything - all of our learnings and all the magic we’ve created - with the addition of food. Attila is quite a special guy. He’s been in the industry doing events for 30+ years. If you say, ‘Elton John’s got a new song out,’ he’ll go, ‘Oh yeah, I remember doing Elton John’s birthday party in 2003.’ I remember saying to him, ‘I’m writing a show that features Diana Ross,’ and he said, ‘I remember doing a show for Diana Ross in Marrakech.’ The guy’s done everything at the highest standard. It’s really wonderful to be working with him and Gary, alongside Jenny McNeill from Feast + Fable, on this production. There are a lot of really creative geniuses getting involved in this show, and it’s really exciting to be working with all of them on this, taking Secret Theatre to the next level. IR: The inspiration behind the show is Tchaikovsky’s classic ballet, but The Nutcracker Noir is a modern reworking of that, right? GL: Yeah. When Richard and I first spoke about the show, he presented a very different version of The Nutcracker, which is super contemporary. All of these characters live in the now. There's, of course, Tchaikovsky woven all the way through it, but there are times that will feel as if Tchaikovsky’s great-great-granddaughter became Chappell Roan. Musically, there’s a bit of pop in there, some jazz and American classics, sing-along moments, a bit of disco and Christmas and current chart music. Each moment really helps describe the history and the fabric of each of the characters. It’s got that classic Baz Luhrmann feel in that it's taking from all these genres and mashing them up. People are going to find it a challenge to stay seated for as long as they have to, but they will be allowed to get up and dance at the end… Photo: Matt Crockett IR: The experience begins with a number of immersive rooms before audiences enter the main performance for the main performance and meal. What can you tell us about the journey audiences will go on? RC: You know when you see those Christmas movies where the guy’s working in the cold city and goes back to the pub in his hometown and people are merry and singing, and you get a drink in your hand straight away? That’s the entry point to the show. It starts with audiences moving through a number of different rooms, a lot like when you move through The Kit Kat Club at Cabaret. In our show, it begins in a Christmas shop, which’ll be open during the day and will be a really cool and kitsch pop-up experience where you can get Christmas gifts and things related to the show. You’ll meet 10 characters in that opening that are all intertwined in the story, which I love. Without giving too much away, there’s a very interesting moment where we’re using projection mapping to really bring this story to life, and as you move into the space, there are all these performer-driven moments too. The currency of my shows is the performers, and to be that close to performers as good as we’ve got is very exhilarating. We’ve actually got some of the Cabaret cast and team in The Nutcracker Noir, so that is what’s going to be quite mesmerising, I think. You’ll see performers walking through the space at the beginning, and have the freedom to walk around yourself. I’ve been to some shows, and there are no performers there, which is something I wanted to change for this one. Let’s have amazing performers greet you so you can feel that talent right away. IR: London’s one of the world’s leading cities for immersive work, with many of the scene’s best-known companies hailing from here. When you were in the planning phase for The Nutcracker Noir, how did you approach creating an experience that stands out against some of the city’s other immersive dining experiences, like The Lost Estate’s The Great Christmas Feast? RC: I think it's a great point, and you need to understand your competitors. You used the example there of The Lost Estate, which is at the forefront of immersive dining experiences around Christmas. I went to their experiences, hung out with Ash, the chef, and I love what they do. I sat there and thought, ‘Can I do something different to this?’, and for me, yes. The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol are very different. [The Lost Estate’s The Great Christmas Feast] is very text-driven, very actor-driven. They have one performer who does a fantastic job of bringing that story to life, but I kind of want more. We have at least 12 performers bringing it to life with dance, with music, with everything. I went to lots of different dining experiences, and I thought, ‘Is it possible to get these dancers, these singers, these actors who are on the West End into an immersive dining show?’. Creating an immersive dining experience done to a West End level was the ambition, and making it really different from the other things that are going on at Christmas. It’s going to be very different in terms of going on more of a journey. At the beginning, you meet all the characters. There's a nice balance of dance, music and narrative which makes it, to me, really, really exciting. It's flamboyant, it's bright, it's West End, it's song, it's dance, it's immersive, it's intimate immersive experiences, so it's very different from the other offerings available this time of year, and I think that's the nice thing. People who love The Nutcracker, love immersive theatre, and love food being intertwined in the story like Gingerline do beautifully, it's going to be right up their street. Photo: Matt Crockett IR: Alongside the immersive elements and main performance, there’s also a three-course meal designed by Jenny McNeill from Feast + Fable. How is the show’s menu going to integrate with the world you’ve created? GL: I think from a staging perspective, what was really important to us was that this whole experience is cohesive, and our guests come out feeling like they've had an amazing immersive experience, and they've watched a spectacular show and enjoyed incredible food. We wanted to make sure that the script and what we do with our staging combine all of these things. So, along with that, the menu has been designed by Richard and Jenny to coincide with the story. So, it's super cohesive in many different ways. We’re planning on using the waiting team as part of the cast. We're hoping to have a seamless relationship between storytelling, musical numbers and food arriving so that the audience has just got this almost 5D experience that never stops. IR: Gary, alongside co-directing, you’re also the choreographer for the show. Previously, you’ve worked on shows such as Heathers and Thriller Live! in the West End. How different is your approach to planning choreography for a venue like Protein Studios, where the audience is a lot closer to the action and surrounding the stage instead of in front of it? GL: I think similarly to combining the dining in with the immersive and the storytelling and the choreography, it's about the audience getting to know each of these characters. I'll be working on the individual movement of each character. There's a richness to what the audience is seeing, both from a stage perspective and when they're meeting them in the immersive rooms and around the space. It is tight, and so we've got a couple of performance spaces with a catwalk that joins them. It’s very much in the round, with tables all facing different directions, so the challenge really is ensuring that when you've got something downstage on the circular element that's right in the centre, everybody further back has got something to look at. It's about creating choreography that is 360 and is able to share that information so that everybody else in the cast is able to kind of translate that through their movement as well. IR: Is working in a 360-degree environment like this a refreshing challenge for you? GL: Well, I've done a couple of in-the-round or in-the-square productions previously, and it is challenging. Especially when you've got a protagonist that's delivering an important bit of information. You want to make sure that everybody gets not just the dialogue or the movement or whatever it is, but they see the emotion on their face. We’ve been working on this show for a very long time, and all of these conversations are part of it, making sure that the experience is fully 360 and fully enriched and just taking in the format of the room. It's a very big production in that sense. Photo: Matt Crockett IR: The show’s also got quite a formidable cast, with performers who’ve previously appeared in everything from Hamilton to Cabaret and Wicked. How has it been having the show’s cast all under one roof as things ramp up? GL: I think between Richard and me, we've worked with most of these actors before, so there's a real sense of familiarity and knowing how the collaboration is going to work. We cast very carefully based on people's personality, as well as their talent and experience. The space will be challenging as much as it will be rewarding, so you need people who are team players, who are flexible, and who understand that every show is going to be different because the audience's reaction to them is going to be different. We've got this super high level of talent, but we've got wonderful, pragmatic and down-to-earth humans at the same time. The Nutcracker Noir will run at Protein Studios near Shoreditch High Street from 26th November to 21st December 2025. Tickets are priced from £48 for Bar Seating and £180 for a shared Club Table (inclusive of a five-course meal). To book tickets and find out more, visit nutcracker-noir.co.uk

Image: The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, which opens at Hammersmith's Riverside Studios later this month, is an immersive stage version of Douglas Adams' classic five-part trilogy. Co-created and written by Arvind Ethan David (Lenny Henry’s Boy With Wings, Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency on Netflix), the show sees audiences join Arthur Dent, Zaphod Beeblebrox, Fenchurch and more on a search for answers to the mystery of Life, the Universe and Everything, armed only with a towel and one very depressed robot. Ahead of the show's opening, we spoke with Arvind to find out more about why an immersive adaptation felt like the right format for the experience, how he's balanced writing a show that appeals to both life-long and new fans, and where audiences can expect to find themselves once they've hitched a ride and escaped the destruction of Earth with seconds to spare... Immersive Rumours: Hi Arvind! Thanks for speaking with us today. Do you mind introducing yourself and explaining the part you’ve played in bringing this new immersive staging of The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy to life? Arvind Ethan David: I'm the writer and co-creator of the show. I had the idea that The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy wanted to be a piece of immersive theatre back in 2020, in the dark days of lockdown and pandemic, and started reaching out to friends and potential collaborators. Five years later, here we are with an amazing creative team and company, and it's about to open. It's exhilarating and terrifying in about equal measure... IR: Your relationship with Douglas Adams and his work stretches back to your teenage years. Do you mind explaining how you first came to meet, and tell us a bit about the impact that relationship has had on your life, both personal and professional? AED: We met when I was 19 and adapted his other masterwork series, Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency, as a student play. He came to see it and took an interest in me, and without really intending to, started my career. 30 years later, I've made dozens of episodes of television, written many books, produced many movies and made a lot of theatre, but I can still trace everything I've ever achieved, and most of the major professional relationships in my life back to that moment and the time I spent with Douglas in the subsequent decade. He didn't necessarily mean to be a mentor, but that was the effect of him, like a comet streaking through my universe; he took me along with him, debris in his wake and happy to be so. Image: The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy IR: While Hitchhiker’s has been adapted into various mediums over the years (including a TV series, film and video game), it’s been a long time since there’s been a true stage adaptation of the series. When you first began having conversations about creating this show, was it always envisioned to be an immersive production, and why did that feel like the right choice for this adaptation? AED: The problem with adapting Hitchhiker's Guide into most conventional mediums is that it is not a conventional linear narrative. It doesn't want to fit in a three-act structure; it won't be pinned down by Robert McKee. So you need a medium that is as mad, inventive, and fluid as the story itself is. That's immersive theatre. The hero of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy is Arthur Dent, an ordinary man to whom extraordinary things - most of which he does not understand - happen, apparently at random. This is a perfect hero for immersive theatre, because the audience gets to BE Arthur. They get to experience an out-of-control universe that makes no linear sense, but has a tone and a feel and a shifting perspective that invites them to turn their lives upside down. IR: The show is taking over quite a large chunk of Riverside Studios when it opens, which is fitting for a show that takes place in several corners of the universe. Where can audiences expect to find themselves, besides in the Horse and Groom pub, frantically trying to finish their drinks before Earth explodes? AED: That would be telling, but the Heart of Gold and a Vogon Cargo Ship are our modes of transport, and we may or may not get to swing by a legendary planet inhabited by someone whose name is not important. Image: The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy IR: When writing the show, how did you find trying to balance creating a story that’s both satisfying for long-time fans - who are incredibly familiar with the source material - and accessible for those new to the story? AED: The secret to adapting Douglas Adams, is you can't adapt Douglas Adams. His genius was his own. He knew better than anyone that when taking his story into a new medium, you had to reinvent it, and he was blissfully unbothered by consistency or "canon". To Douglas, Hitchhiker's Guide was the well that kept giving, that allowed for infinite variations (and infinite improbability). We've taken the same approach. All the favorites - Arthur, Zaphod, Ford, Trillian, Marvin, etc - are there, but they aren't just reciting the greatest hits. They are alive and telling a story as it happens to them, for the very first time. There's plenty of easter eggs and deep love and respect for the genius of the original; the fans will see that, but there is also our attempt to tell the story the way that Douglas might have told it if he was around today, and that means doing something new and making it accessible to folks who have never heard of Arthur Dent. IR: Finally, with rehearsals now underway, how has it been seeing the show’s script come to life with the live cast and creative team all under one roof? AED: I've made 9 movies, 4 musicals, dozens of episodes of television, written books, graphic novels, radio plays and board games. Many of those things have won awards and done well. I can honestly say I've never done anything as challenging, exciting and entirely mental as this. The cast and creative team (led by our directors Georgia Clarke-Day, David Frias Robles and Simon Evans) are world-class, and giving their all. Every day is exhausting and inspiring. Or to put it another way, full of excitement, adventure and really wild things... IR: Thanks for taking the time to speak with us today, Arvind. We’ll be sure to grab our best towel ahead of coming down to Riverside Studios later this month. Photos: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy Live Show will run from 15th November to 15th February 2026 at Riverside Studios in Hammersmith. Standard tickets are priced from £42.00, and VIP tickets are priced from £72.00. For more information and to book tickets, visit hitchhikerslive.com Follow Immersive Rumours on Instagram, X and BlueSky to stay up to date with all the latest news and reviews from London's immersive and interactive theatre scene.

Image: The Vaults Next year, The Vaults returns to in-house productions with a new immersive parody musical, Ancient Grease. Following the five-star sellout success of numerous shows (Mulan Rouge, Stranger Sings, The Witches of Oz, Peter Pan’s Labyrinth, Dinner is Coming and many more), The Vaults have commissioned an original script and score packed with songs, seduction, and smut. Ancient Grease comes to the thriving heart of London, deep in The Vaults’ infamous tunnels - the perfect home for a filthy frolic up Mount Olympus. Ancient Grease is a dirty love-letter to the hit movie musical Grease, re-imagining the iconic characters and setting them amongst the Gods of Mount Olympus. The wine will flow, fate will be rewritten, and Grease gets the ending it always deserved. The show's full description is as follows: Welcome to Olympus Academy, a high school where lessons are lustful, lube is essential, and grease is the dirtiest word. Term is about to begin, and this year graduating with the Gods won’t be the only climax. The Alphas and Omegas are the studs of Olympus, but they’re going to need your help (and possibly a towel). After a fateful summer night, Zeus and Hera are destined to become star-crossed lovers - but when the Fates decide to make things rough, Hera will be forced to choose between Zeus’s thunderbolt and her own explosive desire. As the Gods writhe and the nymphs jive, we invite you to rev your chariot and lose yourself to the swinging tunes of Ancient Grease. It's time to disobey The Fates and show them that integrity is the new sexy. Packed with intoxicating songs, divine dance numbers, and a cast of celestial beings who burn brighter (and dirtier) than ever before. These Gods are behaving badly, and they’re here to bring you the greasiest new musical in town. Drop your togas at the door because, in Ancient Grease, the thunder always comes twice. Image: The Vaults Ancient Grease is the first professional production from emerging writer Lady Aria Grey (star of Mulan Rouge and creator of Grey Widow), and musical directorial debut for one of London’s most prominent queer comedians and creatives of the time, Dan Wye (critically acclaimed stand-up and creator of award-winning cabaret legend Séayoncé). Director Dan Wye comments: I'm excited to be working on such a large-scale queer comedy musical. My work always focuses on elevating queer performance and allowing audiences from all walks of life to experience the power of queer joy... And what better place to do this than The Vaults? The Vaults are proud to champion these bold creatives, pioneering a new age for queer theatre makers as they continue to forge a path for under-represented narratives, with musical supervision from Olivia Zacharia (award winning MD of Diary of a Gay Disaster, and West End Deputy for Moulin Rouge, Titanique, Operation Mincemeat and more.) Speaking on the announcement, The Vaults comment: It’s time to lift the bonnet of Grease for a total overhaul... This summer, the response to Secret Cinema’s Grease was huge, but it came with the same outdated story of becoming someone else in the desire for acceptance. As Grease grows older, the love for it grows stronger, so we decided to reimagine the narrative and bring a new message: put your leather catsuit away. Don’t change for anyone. After a three-year hiatus of producing their own work, The Vaults are embracing the risks of making new, original work in the arches. With this return, The Vaults are committed to their unique Pay What You Can ticketing offer. A limited number of tickets ranging from £5.00 to £20.00 will be available each week as The Vaults strive to ensure the industry remains affordable and accessible to all. Ancient Grease will run from 4th March to 31st May 2026 at The Vaults on Launcelot Street. Tickets are priced from £5.00 - £20.00 for Pay What You Can seats, with Standard tickets ranging from £35.00 to £61.00. To find out more and book tickets, visit thevaults.london/ancient-grease

Image: Gameshow LIVE! Gameshow LIVE! - the world’s first live, interactive gameshow experience - will launch in Central London in Spring 2026. Inspired by classic TV gameshow nostalgia fused with cutting-edge tech and a dose of Vegas showbiz, 200 players in 40 teams compete for crazy prizes in a night out filled with competitive buzzer-bashing fun. Gameshow LIVE! is a 90-minute, cocktail-fueled Gameshow experience, giving teams of 4-6 people the chance to play an immersive reinvention of the TV Gameshows you know and love, with iconic Gameshow inspired prizes up for grabs - think fondue sets, giant teddy bears, smart TVs, robot vacuums, air fryers and an outrageous star prize that’s kept strictly under wraps. From the moment contestants arrive, they’re transported into the glamorous world of Saturday-night television, complete with glossy stages, dazzling lights, dramatic reveals and a giant Gameshow wheel… Seated in state-of-the-art interactive game booths - with their name in lights, a huge red buzzer and cocktails delivered to the table, teams are guided by a charismatic, quick-witted host, as they battle it out on the leaderboard through classic Gameshow challenges including Trivia, Music, Pictures, Speed and ‘come on down’ to the stage bonus rounds. Central to the experience, Gameshow LIVE! will serve a world-class food and drink offering where guests can order signature cocktails and shareable snacks throughout the game by pressing a dedicated service buzzer in their booth. Created by entrepreneurs Josh Ford, creative behind the Swingers crazy golf pop up, and Tristan Hoffman, the operations lead behind the launch of Swingers and The Outernet venues - Gameshow LIVE! promises to shake up the industry by blending competitive socialising and immersive theatre with premium food, drinks and hospitality, in a high-tech ‘interactive entertainment’ venue. Josh Ford, Gameshow LIVE! founder, comments: Gameshow LIVE! takes the magic of the TV game shows we grew up with and transforms it into a high-tech, high-energy night out. The competitive socialising sector has evolved rapidly, and now is the perfect time to introduce something genuinely new. I’m confident our combination of nostalgia, spectacle and pure competitive joy will delight guests, from those looking for an unforgettable night out to those secretly turning up purely for the chance to win a speedboat. Tristan Hoffman, Co-founder, comments: Entertainment is at an exciting moment, where the desire for live experiences, the thrill of competition and the joy of human interaction converge - bringing new ideas and old favourites to life. Gameshow LIVE! is another genre-defining concept from the curious mind of Josh Ford, which reminds us all to have a bit of fun. Gameshow LIVE! can host up to 200 guests at a time in 40 seated game booths. Whether competing with friends or taking the whole office for an unforgettable work party, it’s immersive, interactive, and irresistibly over-the-top. Gameshow LIVE! will open Spring 2026 in Central London. For more information and to sign up for pre-sale access, visit gameshow-live.com

Photo: Matt Crockett This Christmas, globally-acclaimed scene makers DesignScene and immersive storytellers Secret Theatre will present The Nutcracker Noir - a brand-new immersive dining experience and modern reimagining of the classic Christmas tale that promises to be THE festive dining show of the season. Transforming Protein Studios in the heart of Shoreditch into a festive extravaganza for a limited time (26th November to 21st December 2025), this immersive dining experience combines world-class performances, mischief and theatrical storytelling with decadent dishes from immersive dining specialist Jenny McNeill at Feast & Fable (Gingerline, Fat Duck). Inspired by Tchaikovsky’s 1892 ballet, this dazzling show follows the story of an orphan raised in a fantastical world, Clara, as she searches for her long-lost father and somehow ends up directing her own wild adaptation of The Nutcracker in her quest to save her father’s theatre. Through striking immersive design and next-level storytelling, guests will be taken on an otherworldly adventure as they make their way through five interactive spaces filled with captivating performances, hidden surprises and extraordinary characters – think secret spaces, Christmas bodegas, fantasy elves and a journey to the North Pole – all preparing them for the incredible night ahead as they emerge into the spectacularly grand theatre for the main show. The Nutcracker Noir features a truly exceptional cast, showcasing some of the brightest talent fresh from London’s West End. Anita Nicole (The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, Amazon Prime) takes centre stage as Clara, joined by Jairus McClanahan (Hamilton) as her younger brother Frank Zane, and Patrick Wilden (Cabaret, Stage Door) as Jazz, Frank’s best friend and a fellow lost boy. Photo: Matt Crockett The cast also includes a stellar lineup of immersive and musical theatre performers: Christopher Howell (Punchdrunk) as Elf Eldar, Jessica Alonso (Pelotas, Vampire Virus, Art of Dying - Hong Kong, The Great Gatsby - Madrid) as Madame Zel, a theatre critic who plays a key role in the show’s direction, and Shoko Ito (Wicked, Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker) as Clara’s best friend, Angie. David-Michael Johnson (The Bodyguard, Starlight Express and Dirty Dancing) appears as Clara’s long-lost father, and Alex Codd - renowned for his work as Assistant Choreographer to Gary Lloyd on Rehab and most recently as choreographer on Beauty and the Beast - joins the story as a mysterious outsider whom Clara entrusts to help bring the Nutcracker to life. Photo: Matt Crockett Rounding out the ensemble, Tianna Sealy-Jewiss (BOMBAY SUPERSTAR, Rock of Ages, Cross Roads) plays Future, a phenomenal dancer who has lost their way and finds renewed inspiration through Clara. Phoebe Coray (Celebrity Cruises, Sex Education on Netflix, War 2, The Collection on Amazon Prime) plays Flow, a wild Welsh talent who caught Clara’s eye as London's most fantastic specialist performer. Finally, Safeena Ladha (39 Steps - West-End and UK tour, The Great Gatsby, Immersive Everywhere; Dracula - A Comedy of Terrors) steps into the role of Saffy the Deck Slayer, blending movie quotes, game sounds and pop culture references between nostalgic tunes to create her signature DJ style. Entertained at every turn, The Nutcracker Noir promises to be the ultimate Christmas dining experience. Filled with fun, frivolity and flamboyance, the experience allows guests to be as involved in the storyline as they like – whether they want to be at the heart of the action or prefer to sit back and take it all in. Together, this dynamic ensemble will deliver soaring vocals, powerful drama, and a touch of mystery, elevating the immersive Christmas dining experience to extraordinary new heights. Adapted and co-directed by immersive pioneer Richard Crawford (SE7EN / The Great Gatsby), co-directed and choreographed by Gary Lloyd (Thriller Live / Heathers) and co-produced by Atilla Keskin, founder of DesignScene (Amazon MGM Studios, Apple, Pinterest and Bacardi), the production will feature some of the city’s finest talent. Photos: Matt Crockett Designed for groups who love the unexpected, twinned with a hint of the decadent, The Nutcracker Noir promises guests a seasonal experience like no other and is set to create a new standard for festive dining experiences. Showcasing a uniquely designed food and drink concept curated by leading immersive dining specialist Jenny McNeill’s Feast + Fable (Fat Duck, Gingerline), combined with original storytelling and a newly imagined world, it truly is the ultimate Christmas party. The waitlist will open from 25th September, and tickets will be available to purchase during the general on-sale from 30th September 2025. The Nutcracker Noir will run at Protein Studios near Shoreditch High Street from 26th November to 21st December 2025. Tickets are priced from £48 for Bar Seating (Show Ticket) and £180 for a shared Club Table (inclusive of a three-course meal). VIP tickets range from £240 to £300 per person. To book tickets, visit nutcracker-noir.co.uk

Image: Punchdrunk Enrichment Punchdrunk Enrichment have announced the cast for the world premiere of their new show, Fireside Tales. An enchanting interactive adventure for children aged 7-11 and their grown-ups, running at Punchdrunk Enrichment Stores in Wembley Park, Brent, from 6th December 2025 to 4 January 2026. The cast announced today (who will rotate two roles in the production) are Siddiqua Akhtar (A Good Girl's Guide to Murder, BBC/Netflix; Tartuffe, Birmingham Rep), Rebecca Clark (who has performed recently with Frantic Assembly and Complicité), Amari Harris (who has collaborated with venues including the Old Vic and Half Moon Theatre in his work as a storyteller and drama facilitator) and Alex Stedman (The Lost Lending Library, Punchdrunk Enrichment; Murder On The Orient Express, UK & Ireland Tour). Photos: Rebecca Clark, Siddiqua Akthar, Alex Steadman (Yellowbelly Photo), Amari Harris (Suzi Corker) For thousands of years, people have gathered around fires to share stories. But this tradition is fading, and many are at risk of being lost. Now, a new story has arrived: faint as an ember, not yet ready to be told. It needs help to stay alive. Without care, the fire might fade, be forgotten or take on a dangerous new form. Fireside Tales is a show about the stories we tell, the ones we pass down, the ones we forget and what happens when we take the time to listen. Audiences are invited to step into a magical world where stories flicker like flames and imagination keeps them burning bright. Developed with schools, Fireside Tales encourages young audiences to draw, write and share their own stories. The show is written and directed by incoming Artistic Director of Punchdrunk Enrichment Steve McCourt, with additional material devised by the company. The creative team also includes design by Mydd Pharo, costume design by Melissa Simon-Hartman, lighting design by Sarah Readman and sound design by Dominic Kennedy. Additional early evening performances at 7.30pm (for grown-ups only) and extra weekend performances are now on sale due to popular demand, with tickets available via the Punchdrink Enrichment website. Video: Punchdrunk Enrichment Ahead of Fireside Tales opening, from 16th to 18th October, outgoing Artistic Director and CEO of Punchdrunk Enrichment, Peter Higgin, will embark on an epic 100-mile charity run from the Isle of Wight to Wembley Park over 3 days in a remarkable effort to raise £25,000 for Punchdrunk Enrichment. The money will help Punchdrunk Enrichment reach more children and families, particularly those with limited access to arts and cultural experiences. Funds raised through the Founder to Future Challenge will support their core work: keeping ticket prices affordable, offering schools highly subsidised creative learning projects, and developing bold, imaginative experiences that place children at the heart of the story. For more details, see here. Fireside Tales will run at Punchdrunk Enrichment Stores in Wembley Park from 6th December 2025 to 4th January 2026. Tickets are priced from £15, and can be booked via punchdrunkenrichment.org

Image: Mundo Pixar Step into the vibrant world of Pixar like never before. Mundo Pixar Experience is a multi-sensory exhibition which offers fans of all ages a chance to enter the universes of Pixar’s most iconic films. Relive the stories that have shaped generations up close at London's Wembley Park from 13th February 2026. Following its record-breaking success in Brazil, Mexico, Belgium and Spain, where it welcomed over 3.2 million visitors and received widespread acclaim, Mundo Pixar Experience now arrives in the UK for the very first time. The Experience also launches ahead of the release of two brand-new Pixar films coming to cinemas in 2026 - the new original Hoppers, which opens in March, and the eagerly anticipated Toy Story 5 in June. Photo: Mundo Pixar Set in a purpose-built venue in Wembley Park, the exhibition will span more than 3,500 square metres, and will feature 14 Pixar universes, including over 25 sculptures, inviting guests to explore meticulously recreated environments from Toy Story, Monsters, Inc., Cars, Finding Nemo, Inside Out, Coco, Up, and many more fan favourites. Each space combines detailed set design, ambient music, and specially crafted scents to immerse visitors in Pixar’s most beloved stories. Visitors can shrink down to toy size in Andy’s Room from Toy Story, explore the Scare Floor from Monsters, Inc. with Mike and Sulley, race into Flo’s Café from Cars to meet Lightning McQueen, or soar through the skies with Carl Fredricksen from Up. They can also visit the Headquarters of Riley’s emotions from Inside Out 2, and journey from Coco's Land of the Living to the Land of the Dead. Photo: Mundo Pixar Presented by Golden Peak Live Entertainment, in collaboration with Proactiv Entertainment, RG Live, Senbla, and Luna, the London edition will also include a brand-new room created exclusively for this stop on the world tour - debuting for the very first time at Wembley Park and offering a unique experience available only in the UK. Beyond the immersive sets, guests can take part in a special Pixar Ball Treasure Hunt, searching for the famous yellow ball with a red star hidden throughout the exhibition - a playful nod to the beloved Easter egg that appears in many Pixar films. Photo: Mundo Pixar London's Mundo Pixar Experience is accessible for visitors with motor, hearing, visual, and neurodivergent disabilities, ensuring that everyone can share in the creativity and joy of Pixar’s storytelling. This trailblazing exhibition is a heartfelt journey through 40 years of imagination, emotion, and innovation - celebrating the timeless stories that continue to inspire children, families, and fans around the world. Photo: Mundo Pixar Mundo Pixar Experience opens in Wembley Park on 13th February 2026. To find out more and sign up for the presale, visit mundopixar.com