Sleep No More

Sleep No More

The McKittrick Hotel

July 21, 2018

Photo courtesy of Sleep No More

If you have not heard about or seen Sleep No More, you need to go on line, read more about it, and get a ticket.  This site specific work takes place at the McKittrick Hotel in Chelsea.  Created by Punchdrunk, a British theatre company, the production first premiered on March 7, 2011.  Sleep No More adapts the story of Shakespeare’s Macbeth and combines it with the styling of noir films to create an immersive, environmental masterpiece told through movement and dance.

Photo courtesy of Sleep No More

When you enter into the hotel, you are immediately transported to a different time period.  You walk through room after room of the four story building on your own.  You are encouraged to explore.  You are not allowed to speak.  Characters appear and slowly and meticulously act out their drama, then disappear.  You follow them into other rooms where they encounter different characters and continue their story.  The action begins to intertwine.  The scenes are dimly lit, emotionally driven, precisely timed, and intensely choreographed.  Your mind connects the images to the story of Macbeth.  All your senses are engaged as the mystery and suspense builds to a stunning climax.   

Photo courtesy of Sleep No More

This was my first immersive theatre experience, and I intend to return to Sleep No More very soon.  Since it takes place on numerous floors and rooms simultaneously, you cannot take in the entire experience at one time.  There were certain characters and plot lines that I did not get to see.  I recommend you refresh your knowledge of the characters and plot from Macbeth before attending.   

Domenick Danza