The West ★★★ COLAB Theatre | Until October 1, 2022


The small town of Olverton has not had an easy time of it! A sandstorm virtually destroyed the place and now there's been a train robbery and the outlaws are on the loose. This participative experience allows you to enjoy some time in the wild and hilarious west created by the gang from COLAB Theatre. If you are looking for a realistic venture into the world of the American cowboy, this probably won't be your cup of bourbon, but if you can get into an evening of western-themed silliness with a group of friends, you should have a lot of fun. There is a narrative which the actors dutifully try to hold together as the participants become distracted by trying to escape from jail or by deciphering various puzzles. The cast do a fine job of improvisation, striving to move the story along while incorporating material from the audience. They have their work cut out for them! The evening begins in the saloon and after that players are divided into small groups, becoming deputies, suspected outlaws etc. They then follow different paths with personalised activities until the obligatory climactic shootout. The evening ends in a coda that gives the plot an amusing twist. All we'll say about that is: "Thar's some strange critters out there in this version of the west."

Rated: ★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Alex Walton.

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When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: 74 Long Ln, London SE1 4AU, UK

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