The Uncanny Things Trilogy, The Colab Tower Review
Written by Danai for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.
The Uncanny Things Trilogy at the Colab Tower is not your typical show. Directed by Leo Doulton, it offers an immersive opera experience that invites anyone with a taste for exploration, interactivity, and becoming a true part of a story to take part.
As an immersive experience, I genuinely feel that this one is well-crafted, with thoughtful challenges, riddles, themes, and, most importantly, exceptional acting. The performers were outstanding, and the atmosphere they created was truly impressive. However, when it comes to practical elements, I do believe there’s room for improvement.
For example, I still can’t quite understand why such a deeply immersive experience with talented actors didn’t pay more attention to details like the printed materials. The aesthetics of these prints seemed disconnected from the actors' costumes and the enigmatic presence of the Uncanny Thing. Such small details, if improved, could make a significant difference in the overall experience.
In terms of audience engagement, I also feel the setup could be improved. For instance, placing people around tables rather than in rows when gathering to solve a riddle or create a potion would make the experience more enjoyable. It would allow for better visibility and communication, especially for groups of strangers. Also, why use just one small piece of paper for a riddle instead of a larger one or multiple smaller ones? These minor practical issues detract from an otherwise excellent theatrical experience, which felt truly enjoyable when considering its artistic elements.
For fans of pen-and-paper games, this show can be a very exciting and familiar concept. However, for those less acquainted with this kind of interactive storytelling, it could initially feel intimidating. That said, the performers were fantastic at guiding the audience, offering suggestions, and adapting to their reactions. One choice I personally found distracting and unnecessary was the constant humming. While it worked well during interactions with the Uncanny Thing or when performing rituals, the persistent hum at the same level throughout the show felt repetitive and ultimately detracted from the experience.
Overall, this interactive show is a fantastic way to draw more people into fantasy worlds, blending opera, immersive theatre, and traditional fantasy game elements. It’s an excellent way to feel like an active participant in the narrative and have fun doing so. That being said, I believe there is potential for even greater impact if certain complementary details are refined. With some attention to these aspects, the show could be elevated to an even higher level and leave a lasting impression long after the curtain falls.
Playing until 30 March 2025
★ ★ ★.5
