Virulent Experience At Conway Hall

Written and directed by John Harrigan, founder of the Foolish People company, the ‘Virulent Experience‘ is taking over Red Lion Square’s art deco Conway Hall until 31 August.

‘Virulent Experience’ and similar shows are always difficult to review – this is an audience participation piece where both the wilful suspension of disbelief and the element of surprise are absolutely necessary if you are to draw anything useful out of the evening. What I can tell you is that for the next three weeks Conway Hall has become the ‘Museum of Virulent Experience’, a place where in 2040 all strong emotions have been safely locked away. Your journey into the mid 21st century will take you from the museum’s basement to the roof, and past a dizzying array of disturbing art and challenging performances. There will be shocks and surprises, not least of which is the centrepiece of the show featuring the spectre of a certain purple-clad pop star from the late 20th century…

I found ‘Virulent Experience’ both confusing and exhilarating in equal measure, the most intense theatrical event I’ve attended this year – believe me, it is way, way out there! Probably best experienced with a friend to help keep you grounded, tickets cost £20 per person (£15 concessions) with staggered entry times from 7:30pm. For the poverty-stricken amongst us there are ‘pay what you can’ Tuesdays too. Do go along if you can, but keep an open mind and above all remember to stay absolutely calm…