Escape Room The Musical at The Other Palace Studio Review
Written by Eleanor B for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
What happens when you put a group of university mates in an escape room after not speaking for two years, one month and 27 days? You get a fast-paced, sharp-witted play that’s equal parts chaotic fun and emotional reflection, with more than a few surprises along the way.
This show is a really fun way to spend an hour. It feels like watching your friends on stage in the best way possible—relatable, a little unpredictable, and full of heart. Even with a minimal set, the story is brilliantly told. You’re lulled into thinking you might just be able to crack the clues before the cast does… but you’ll quickly be proven wrong.
Escape Room The Musical follows a group of former friends mysteriously brought together in an escape room, unsure of who arranged it or why. As they work through the puzzles, hidden tensions and secrets begin to surface, just as the clock keeps ticking. It’s a show that plays with structure and expectation, full of smart reveals and unexpected turns. Let’s just say a certain French wildcard might have more to offer than puzzling proverbs about cats and fish. What begins as a game becomes something deeper, asking whether these fractured friendships can be repaired—or if they were always destined to fall apart.
If you’re like me and are a fan of musicals, escape rooms and spontaneous dance breaks, this show is absolutely up your street.
The cast includes Issie Roll as Olivia, Lizzy Monds as Max, Dennis Hughes as Johnny with a Hat, James Taylor as Johnny, Emily Holland as Poppy, Hermione Lester as Ellie, and Félix Marceau as Pierre. Each actor brings something distinct to the stage, with fun, playful depictions that give the audience space to imagine a full backstory for every character. The performances strike that sweet spot between comedy and emotion—authentic, but never too serious.
Created by a talented team—Tom Rolph (Writer, Composer, Director, Musical Director), Michael Rincon (Writer, Composer, Musical Director), Hermione Lester and Naomi Park (Choreographers)—this is a great debut performance. With its tight ensemble, clever writing and brilliant pacing, it’s a perfect fit for the Edinburgh Fringe, and I can’t wait to see where it goes next.
Escape The Room: The Musical will play at Just The Tonic at the Caves from 31 July to 24 August as part of the 2025 Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
★★★★
