InteracInteractive theater like Sleep No More is the worst place to hold handsveteer like is the worst place …

InteracInteractive theater like Sleep No More is the worst place to hold handsveteer like is the worst place …

As a seasoned immersive theatergoer and someone who values unique experiences, I cannot stress enough the importance of letting go of your partner’s hand during these shows. I’ve been to numerous productions by Emursive Productions, including “Sleep No More” and their latest offering, “Life and Trust.” And every time, I am frustrated by the couples who insist on holding hands throughout the entire performance.


What I’m about to say may make you feel angry and defensive, but listen: I’m right.

For a romantic duo attending an engaging production by Emursive, such as “Sleep No More” or their latest offering “Life and Trust,” please abstain from clinging to one another’s hands throughout the performance. Let go for the duration of the show.

If you’re new to these productions, they are staged in grand sets that extend over several stories. The storyline unfolds throughout this expansive area, with actors remaining in character as they transition from one scene to another – sometimes even enacting multiple scenes concurrently. As an audience member, you have the freedom to decide where to focus your attention. You can wander through the set or stay with a particular character from start to finish. At Sleep No More, you also have the option of relaxing in the bar and enjoying some soothing background music. The choice is yours.

Significantly, attending a show with a group of friends or a companion may result in distinct experiences for each person. Some might argue that this is precisely the aim.

Every time I attend one of these gaming shows, I can’t help but notice an abundance of couples strolling around, hand in hand. Climbing the labyrinthine staircases together, they cling to each other for support and companionship. In the dimly lit corridors, filled with twists and turns, they navigate through as one, their bond unbroken. And during those thrilling actor chases, they remain inseparable, like two magnets drawn to each other, unable to break free from their magnetic connection.

It’s. Very. Annoying.

From my personal perspective, I’ve noticed that holding hands in a crowded situation can indeed create logistical issues. Based on my own experiences, when I’m in a group trying to follow a tour guide or navigate through a busy area, it can be frustrating if someone insists on holding hands with their partner. It slows us all down, and I believe it’s inconsiderate of the flow of foot traffic around us. This isn’t about being against public displays of affection; rather, it’s about understanding the impact our actions have on those around us in a shared space.

Based on my personal experience, I believe that forcefully being codependent and having the same experience during a show, like “Life and Trust,” can actually dilute its impact. I recall attending the performance with a group of six friends. We entered the venue together but chose to split up at the beginning of the show. The vastness of the space made it so that I barely ran into any of them throughout the night.

It’s possible I’m overthinking this situation, but the idea of hand-holding during a guided tour seems quite challenging for me. If you and your partner prefer to focus on different actors or explore various parts of the set, who gets to make that call? And how can you both be content with the decision when communication is limited?

During my exploration at “Life and Trust,” I decided to focus on particular characters as they moved around. This approach allowed me to visit various rooms and gain a comprehensive understanding of the storyline.

My friend Tara Burton, an experienced immersive theater critic, opted to investigate the set instead of following the performers during “Life and Trust.” She spent the evening acting as a detective, examining drawers and reading documents. It was essential for both of us to have our unique experiences, and I’m sure Tara would have been frustrated if I had tried to pull her along in search of charismatic actors. On the other hand, the insights she shared during our post-show discussion were intriguing, but “Life and Trust” was not my choice for letter reading (I went for the exhilarating experience of climbing up and down six flights of stairs and breaking a sweat).

After our group meeting following the performance, I learned about missed scenes and characters. Although I regretted not witnessing two men engaging in a homoerotic fight in the hidden boxing ring, my friends were envious of my personal encounter with an actor who bound me with ropes during a scene that combined elements of cats’ cradle and shibari.

I was thrilled to recount the recent events that unfolded for me, and engage in stimulating conversations about our varied experiences. It’s a blast! I couldn’t help but wonder if sharing those moments with friends would have made it even more enjoyable. Maybe so, but honestly, I’m content with having had this unique perspective all to myself. If we had stayed together as a group, we would have missed out on some significant portions of the play – it’s just too grand to fully take in during one viewing.

If you feel strongly about being next to each other throughout the event, consider giving one another some space in smaller areas like stairwells. A gentle tug on the sleeve could signal your desire to move on and explore new areas together. In larger rooms, try sneaking up beside your partner in the dark and subtly placing your hand in theirs as you both enjoy a scene. Isn’t that a more enjoyable experience than standing still?

That’s the compromise I’m offering, but honestly, do yourself a favor: Experience the show alone.

I appreciate discussing my thoughts after a traditional play or movie as much as anyone. However, immersive theater is quite different – it’s not something you simply watch. Instead, it’s an individual journey to be explored. And I’d prefer enduring the pain of a baseball bat hitting my kneecaps than being compelled to follow someone else’s lead during an interactive play.

As your fan, I’d encourage you to let go of your partner’s hand for a moment and explore a new experience together. You might be surprised by the connection you’ll make as you each discover something new. Trust me, the bond will only grow stronger from this shared adventure.

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2024-07-20 19:19

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