Punchdrunk Information

Since 2000 Punchdrunk has pioneered a game-changing form of theatre in which roaming audiences experience epic storytelling inside unique sensory worlds. Blending classic texts, physical performance, award-winning design installation and unexpected sites, the company’s infectious format rejects the passive obedience usually expected of audiences. Punchdrunk has developed a worldwide reputation for transformative productions that focus as much on the audience and the performance space as on the performers and narrative. Inspired designers occupy deserted buildings and apply a cinematic level of detail to immerse the audience in the world of the show. Punchdrunk productions are unique theatrical experiences, where the lines between space, performer and spectator are constantly shifting. Audiences are invited to rediscover the childlike excitement and anticipation of exploring the unknown and experience a real sense of adventure. Free to encounter the installed environment in an individual imaginative journey, the choice of what to watch and where to go is yours alone. Led by Felix Barrett, the Chief Executive and the Punchdrunk creative team, the company produces a selection of its groundbreaking commercial projects internationally, forging partnerships with selected organisations. Sleep No More in New York has been playing to sell out audiences since 2011, and in Shanghai the show has been running since 2016 having become the longest running show in the city's history. In 2020 Punchdrunk and writer Dennis Kelly created The Third Day, a TV series co-produced with HBO and Sky Studios in partnership with Plan B Entertainment. Designed to be the world’s first immersive TV series, the first transmission included an episode called The Third Day: Autumn recorded as-live in one continuous, 12-hour take. This innovative theatrical event received an RTS Award for Best Live Event, and was also nominated for a BAFTA in the Live Event category.