Viola’s Room review: Punchdrunk’s immersive walkthrough is a spooky and enchanted dream

Punchdrunk Theatre are back with their latest immersive piece, taking place at their HQ in Woolwich, East London.

This time around, guests are required to walk into the experience barefoot and wearing headphones, as Helena Bonham Carter’s recorded voice narrates the story of Viola’s Room.

Instructed to always “follow the light” in the dimly lit first few corridors, our group of four found ourselves in the titular space of a 1990s teenage girl.

Asked to find a bed and lie down, Helena began to tell us a story that would literally lead us through Narnia-esque wardrobes and twinkly, seemingly endless corridors.

We wouldn’t want to spoil the show, but let’s at least tease what’s in store.

Thematically, Viola’s Room reminded us of the gothic fantasy of Guillermo Del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth, but with a storyline that is all too vague and mysterious throughout.

Punchdrunk certainly lean into the sensory aspects of this piece over the substance of the narrative.

Highlights include some beautifully constructed models and shadow puppetry, alongside the contrasting feeling of soft pillows and coarse soil on your feet, depending on where you are in this dark fairy tale.

There are moments of complete darkness, but rest assured no jump scares. It’s spooky, but not a horror.

Nor are there any actors within the experience, but Helena’s voice guides you through to a beautifully designed conclusion.

It’s not for everyone, but if this is your bag you’ll get lost in wonder for 45 minutes.

Viola’s Room is on at One Cartridge Place, London, until August 18 and tickets can be booked here.