Then She Fell (
)
Maybe it’s because we live in a world where everybody’s connected, but this year has seen an explosion of “immersive” shows that blur the line between audience and performers. In some, you walk around sprawling sets instead of watching from a seat. In others, the cast comes to you. Often you share intimate moments with the actors.
There’s one caveat: “Immersive” doesn’t mean go-and-grab. As cozy as the interactions can get, they’re strictly one-way — the actors may touch you, but you can’t return the favor unless invited. With that in mind, here’s a guide to the more physical experiences in town. Let the hands, from 1 to 4, tell you what to expect.
SLEEP NO MORE
The notion: A huge, thrilling, choose-your-own adventure experience. You’re let loose in the gigantic “McKittrick Hotel,” where you can explore 100 elaborately decorated rooms on your own. Or follow the actors as they re-create mysterious scenes loosely inspired by “Macbeth,” “Vertigo” and “Rebecca.”
Sensations: Theatergoers are required to wear a “Scream”-like mask throughout, which may not be comfortable, especially if you wear glasses. The noise level ranges from deafening to dead quiet. A sexy nurse may invite you into a small room for a private session, or a tuxedo-clad gent may invite you to dance. Anything can happen here.
Libations: Remove your mask at the Manderley Bar, where you can imbibe an absinthe, Old-Fashioneds or other concoctions for about $15.
Touchy-feely factor: * * *
Open run; 530 W. 27th St.; 866-811-4111
THEN SHE FELL
The notion: Third Rail Projects’ interactive production takes you down the rabbit hole — in this case, an abandoned hospital wing — in its surreal exploration of the life and works of “The Adventures of Alice in Wonderland” author Lewis Carroll.
Sensations: Beautifully disorienting and dreamlike. You can try on hats with a deranged Hatter, participate in a raucous tea party or engage in a one-on-one game of cards. Uniformed “nurses” hand you keys to unlock boxes and cabinets.
Libations: Free drinks include cocktails dubbed the “Bombshell” and the “Siren,” sangria and Prosecco after personal interaction with the Doctor. There’s also a non-alcoholic tea.
Touchy-feely factor: * * * *
Through Jan. 6 at Arts@Renaissance, 2 Kingsland Ave., Brooklyn; 718-388-5454.
RESTORATION COMEDY
The notion: Two 17th-century comedies inspired Amy Freed’s freewheeling play, performed by a young, energetic ensemble The Bats.
Sensations: It’s a party — and in such a tiny space! Depending on your comfort level, it’s either great fun or intrusive. The performers greet you individually and ply you with (free) drinks; intermission includes free food, more drinks and singalong. Expect to spend about four hours there, during which you may find a half-naked performer on your lap.
Libations: “Loveless Lemonade” (vodka, mint, lemon juice and a splash of soda), plus food, delicious and free with the $40 or $45 ticket price.
Touchy-feely factor: * * *
Through Dec. 31 at the Flea Theatre, 41 White St.; 212-352-3101
THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD
The notion: The audience selects, by a show of hands, the villain — and favorite romantic couple — at Rupert Holmes’ 1986 musical, based on an unfinished Dickens mystery.
Sensations: Studio 54 today becomes London’s Music Hall Royale in 1895. The cast, hamming it up as Victorian actors, swans down the aisles, frequently glad-handing and even hugging members of the audience, who later votes for their favorites.
Libations: Fortify yourself with any of three $16 “Drood” cocktails: the “Chairman’s Tonic” (“to show we’re glad you’re here!”), the “Quite Mad Mule” (“because sanity is just a passing fad”) and a “Killer Joe” (“will help you know whodunit”).
Touchy-feely factor: * *
Through March 10 at Studio 54, 254 W. 54th St.; 212-719-1300