Five ways to have an even more mind-blowing experience at ‘The Burnt City’

‘The Burnt City’ is based on the myths of the Trojan War. Visitors are propelled into the last days of Troy; a sprawling neon metropolis besieged by the Greek army. It’s a beguiling, savage world in which mortals walk among the gods – brought to life in a seemingly ever-expanding network of rooms that you can explore. Punchdrunk’s story is inspired by Aeschylus’ ‘Agamemnon’ and Euripides’ ‘Hecuba’. You certainly don’t need a deep knowledge of Greek mythology to become entranced by ‘The Burnt City’, but it’s worth reading a little about this world on the website going in. 

Let’s get the basics out of the way. ‘The Burnt City’ takes place across two enormous spaces; one representing a dark and desolate Greece, the other the neon city of Troy with its warren-like corridors, secret shops and unexpected spaces. You’ll be on your feet for the whole time, so wear comfy shoes. It’s also a good idea to eat beforehand (especially if you’re going to be drinking at the bar). Bags aren’t allowed in, so prepare to pay £1 for the cloakroom. It gets warm inside, too. 

Okay, now that’s out of the way – it’s time to enter ‘The Burnt City’. As with all Punchdrunk shows, you’ll begin by donning a mask. Our tip? Leave your friends and loved ones behind. Lose yourself to this eerie, fascinating world and follow your intuition. The story comprises one 60-minute show that loops three times, so you can experience it from different perspectives and angles. There are always new things to discover in this meticulously detailed set; a beautiful dance sequence, a stunning set piece, a surprise cabaret performance at the bar. 

Unlike other immersive experiences, ‘The Burnt City’ invites you to be a fly on the wall to the action. Think of it as a living dream; the dancers-slash-actors are there to be observed. If a performer interacts with you, you may respond, but there’s no need to verbally or physically initiate. Similarly, you can touch things, and even open doors and drawers – just don’t take anything with you. And if you’re suddenly in a spotlight? Best to move out of it, as that means performers are about to move into that space. 

‘The Burnt City’ is a devastatingly beautiful experience – but not one that you need to follow in a linear way. It’s natural to lose a character you’re following, or become distracted by a new sequence or hidden door. Just go with the flow, and allow things to unfold naturally. You won’t regret it. 

‘The Burnt City’ has been extended to September, and tickets start at £45. Book yours now.