New Immersive Titanic Play Q&A

We told you last week about the RMB 200,000 chance to play Rose in a new immersive Titanic theatre (see related articles below for that). Well this week we got a chance to talk with people behind the scenes about what to expect in this unique immersive theatre. 

DreamWeaver Productions and The DeTao School of Design are bringing a fully-immersive titanic theatre to Shanghai in November. ‘Ship of Dreams...The Titanic Experience’ will be an interactive, choose-your-own-adventure sort of play that, yes, takes place on a boat. 

1. First off, what should we call this experience? Is it immersive theatre, an interactive play, something else?

The production is an immersive interactive experience. Not only will “passengers” dress the part, (as much as possible) but they will also be very up close to the actors. In other words, this ain’t your grandma’s sit down and watch experience. We want our patrons to be “a part” of the whole proceedings.  Especially when the “iceberg” hits. The finale is going to be very moving, emotional and cathartic.

2. Who came up with the idea of mixing this kind of interactive experience/show with the story of the titanic?

Our Creative Director, and my business partner, Brian Wang came to me about 8 months ago and proposed the idea based on the Chinese love for the movie. Since it’s the 20th anniversary of the movie, I thought the timing was ripe to do something spectacular. Originally we had a partnership with one of Shanghai’s famous theatres, but that fell through and it devastated us. So we went back to work and actually found a ship company specializing in river tours that loved the idea. Now we have the very first immersive theatre production to set sail ever in China. Pretty dope.

3. Why do you think the titanic has fascinated people for so long?

The Titanic has been a fascination world-wide for several reasons. I think the utter tragedy of the situation surrounding a sip that was supposedly “unsinkable” pulls at people’s heartstrings. The sheer loss of life is hard to forget. There have been historians researching this story for over 100 years. There is a rich trove of information on the passengers, the ship itself and the aftermath of the accident. Also, there are quite a few “conspiracy theories” circling the bow of that ship! From stopping the Federal Reserve from starting in the US (there was a ton of cash, stocks and bonds worth billions in today’s current value one the ship), to actual whispers of Illuminati being on board. Look out for those conspiracies to unfold in our show.

4. What sort of problems (if any) did you run into while planning this?

Not too many problems but of course being compliant with governmental permission was a daunting task. Since this type of show has never been attempted in China before you can imagine the paperwork. But we have one of the best organizations in China on our side, and they helped us through it all. Rehearsal space is always a challenge in Shanghai. It’s really difficult for venues to understand why we a jumping around or yelling or having fight scenes in their establishments. Luckily we have a great partner who just gets it.

5. Are there any plans for taking this show to other cities around China?

We would love to tour the show!  You got a boat? No seriously, DreamWeaver is moving into the future of theatre by presenting immersive-only productions from here on out.  It is the way millennials want to experience theatre. We have heard the people speak and we are following in the path of PunchDrunk with their fabulous Sleep No More. Yeah, we are like Sleep No More, on a ship.

6. Maybe the most important question: will this take place on a boat that actually floats in the water?

We will perform the whole show on a ship. We have procured the biggest boat sailing the Huangpu, which actually sets sail from the Pudong side of the South Bund. We will outfit the boat to look like the time period of the Titanic as much as possible. We have partnered with DeTao university students who have worked very hard on designs to transform the ship into the past. 

7. The titanic obviously had a tragic ending, should we, ya know, be worried about anything while attending this event?

As far as the assumed ending, I think audiences will have to come and see it all unfold. We have 4 different endings from the sorrowful to the celebratory. Which night will they come? That’s the experience they will have. 

8. Is there a dress code for those who attend the show? Do we have to dress like we’re from 1912?

We would like our patrons to do some research before they get on board, yes. It would be the very best scenario if guests arrive in “costume” so that the experience is fully immersive. We want it to be difficult to discern passengers from actors. Do your research folks! No jeans or heavy metal t-shirts allowed.

9. There were no iphones in the titanic so… will we be allowed to take selfies if we go?

Phones during the show is a double edged sword. We don’t want people taking frisking selfies during the show. It’s distracting and takes away from the time period. We might have a selfie moment, or have photos for sale in some way. We are still deliberating on that one.

10. What would you say to anyone who is on the fence about checking this out when it opens up?

I’d say Ship of Dreams: The Titanic Experience is going to be the “pearl of Shanghai,” possibly of China. Be there or miss out on the most ambitious, engaging show that has ever hit Shanghai. If you are an adventurer, a lover, a Titanic movie freak or someone looking to add drama and excitement to your life, you are welcome aboard. If you’re a spoiled brat who spends more time in their phone or in the mirror, stay home.

For more info on ticketing:

https://www.247tickets.com/t/titanic-ship-of-dreams-the-titanic-experience/?lang=en

https://www.247tickets.com/t/titanic-ship-of-dreams-the-titanic-experience/?lang=zh

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