Viola’s Room was an immersive production like no other. This audio-driven journey guided audiences through a labyrinthine installation using light and sound, creating an experience that was both unique and unsettling. In stark contrast, Waiting for Godot provided a more conventional yet thought-provoking experience. The performance at the Theatre Royal Haymarket delves into the meaning of life and the absurdity of existence.

Student reviews:

‘On arrival to the Punchdrunk Theatre space, we were asked to take off our shoes and socks and given a headset. We were warned that at moments during the experience, we would be immersed in complete darkness. I was apprehensive as we entered the space, which was already dark and lit by only dim overhead lights. Our headset began to narrate a story, told by Helena Bonham Carter, about a young woman, Viola, who was pulled from her home to a tree, which was through a large maze at the bottom of her massive garden. As the story unfolded, we were led by lights into different amazing spaces, such as a bedroom, a plushy maze, and a giant tree. As we moved through the experience, it got darker and more claustrophobic, with the floor changing landscape and affecting our senses. I absolutely loved the experience and it made me consider how we could use this as inspiration for our own devising’ - Keya Seyani

‘Waiting For Godot’ was a complete contrast to the theatrical experience of ‘Viola’s Room’. A straight-up play, ‘Waiting For Godot’ was funny, silly and also serious in its message of how in life, we are constantly waiting and expectant of something that never quite arrives, or, if it does, it isn’t quite what you expect. I absolutely loved the absurdity of the writing and the performances by the whole cast, led by Ben Whishaw and Lucian Msamati. It was an amazing day and great inspiration for us as young performance artists.’ - Amber Kirkman

The trip provided students with a rich tapestry of theatrical styles, from the immersive, sensory-driven narrative of Viola’s Room to the reflective, traditional structure of Waiting for Godot. Both performances offered valuable insights and sparked inspiration for future creative work.