Punchdrunk’s linear art experience - Viola’s Room - was a visual, physical and auditory masterpiece of sensual delights - off the Woolwich tube stop in London, England.
After a morning of visiting the National Portrait Gallery and an early afternoon visiting Tate Modern, it was time for the final art experience of the day: Punchdrunk Company’s newest art experience – Viola’s Room.
Now, I’d first heard about Punchdrunk’s linear art experience, Viola’s Room, while at dinner at The Duchess Restaurant in Amsterdam. While in conversation with the table next to me about how we both loved Crazy Horse in Paris, France, my temporary friend in conversation raved about his visit to Viola’s Room in Woolwich, London.
A few days later, I was on the Elizabeth line traveling to Woolwich, ready for the multi sensory experience to come.
Now, to explain Punchdrunk is to give away the whole premise. Plus, there were no phones allowed during the experience. However, I write this to say that Viola’s Room was the best combination of visual, audio and tactile art I’ve experienced, in just under 60 minutes.
Walking the halls, crawling, moving board as our group of 5 followed the light, the story of Viola’s imagination was told. Of dancing, of the transition from childhood to college, of love and loss and of transformation. With the brilliant Helena Bonham Carter serving as a personal narrator through our headsets.
Plus, the story had a wonderful soundtrack that made me think dearly upon the music that I listened to in high school and college.
I will say that taking it all in was sometimes overwhelming. Because, you’re literally in a follow along piece of art.
But, the whole experience is masterfully done. I truly look forward to the next Punchdrunk experience I’m able to attend.
Punchdrunk: Viola’s Room
The Carriageworks, 5 Carriage StRoyal Arsenal, London SE18 6DJ
