Review: Punchdrunk: The Burnt City ★★★★★
Hushed whispers and loud bodies crafting a complex and beautiful narrative that is a MUST SEE.
Punchdrunk: The Burnt City | Woolwich | Booking until 24 September | £45
Punchdrunk: The Burnt City was a truly breathtaking immersive experience, the level of detail and work put into this large scale living and breathing world is clear for the eye to see.
The atmosphere created through the sound design, lighting design and sets was magnificent. Throughout the experience I was in awe and had goosebumps of how grandiose the environment was, every new area explored was mind blowing and emphasised the layered themes present within the story of The Burnt City.
The work of the cast is phenomenal being fully dedicated to their place within the detail rich world, also the level of focus and skill present was brilliant. Every actor knew exactly where they had to be at every single second of the experience and never missed a beat, despite the fact there was minimal dialogue only having the sound design to guide them. A true testament to the devotion and talent of the cast. The level of detail put into each character within the experience made it very difficult to decide who to follow, but everyone I did choose to follow left me with no regrets.
The extension of the experience beyond the actual performance space was also thrilling with a gorgeous and scenic bar area that left me in total awe. Additionally, the live performances that take place in there throughout the duration of the immersive experience, were amazing. It was an easy decision to head to the bar throughout the experience as it was evident I would still be entertained no matter where I wanted to go.
Also a special shout out to the crew and staff of the experience who were very attentive and helpful both prior to and during the experience, made it very clear what I had to do or where I had to go. Their work really helped make The Burnt CIty a must see experience.
A looping story that you could just lose yourself in, Punchdrunk: The Burnt City is an experience that will leave you speechless at every turn.
Full disclosure: We have reviewed the show before but love a plurality of opinions so here’s Bailey’s glowing review.
Aspiring reviewer, I enjoy more experimental and stylistically distinct forms of theatre.
