Hello, this is Realworld. Welcome to our 'Does This Actually Work?' series, which runs with the catchphrase 'Bringing all the fun in the world to you!' Today's topic is the immersive theater production 'Sleep No More'.
When you think of theater, what image comes to mind? Typically, theater involves audiences sitting in their seats watching actors perform on stage. That's why we have the term 'fourth wall' - the imaginary barrier that separates the stage from the audience.
But what if you could step out of your seat, see the actors up close, and complete the story together in sync with them? Wouldn't that be more immersive? Recently, immersive performances have become a new trend in the entertainment industry. It just so happens that among Realworld's members, we have true fans of 'Sleep No More,' which made a significant mark in the immersive theater world. We've invited Team Leader Baek Jeong-hyeon and Planner Choi Su-min from our New Business Planning & Development Team as guests for this episode.
The Appeal of 'Sleep No More'
Before diving into the main discussion, we had some time for our guests to show off their fan credentials by sharing how many times they've seen 'Sleep No More.' Team Leader Baek Jeong-hyeon, who has already seen it 17 times, has not only visited the McKinnon Hotel in Shanghai but is also planning to visit the McKittrick Hotel in New York in September. Planner Choi Su-min has seen it 8 times so far, and after becoming a fan in June, she's been visiting Shanghai every month. What incredible dedication!
What exactly is it about Sleep No More that captured the hearts of these two team members? Planner Choi Su-min was captivated by the massive scale of using an entire 6-story building, and fell in love during one-on-one interactions with her favorite actor. Team Leader Baek Jeong-hyeon loves time loop stories, and 'Sleep No More' is also a loop narrative where a tragic story repeats continuously. He found it appealing how the characters in the play are aware of this, and how the content leading toward tragedy is seamlessly woven in.
So what exactly is a one-on-one interaction? Team Leader Baek Jeong-hyeon defines it as 'being kidnapped by an actor,' and Planner Choi Su-min provided additional explanation. At some point during the performance, an actor selects one audience member and leads them to a secret place where no one else can go, performing exclusively for that one person. It's an incredibly thrilling moment, but apparently it's quite disappointing when you don't get selected for a one-on-one.
They say the difference between having and not having a one-on-one experience is enormous, so if you're planning to see 'Sleep No More,' we definitely recommend trying to experience it.
True Fan Episodes and Viewing Tips
Having seen 'Sleep No More' multiple times, they must have many memorable episodes. Planner Choi Su-min shared a story about being chosen by her favorite character during the 'walk out' time, when actors take audience members' hands and exit together after the final performance ends.
And what tips do they have for audiences planning to see 'Sleep No More'?
Team Leader Baek Jeong-hyeon strongly recommends seeing it at least twice. Since visiting Shanghai for a performance involves hassles like visa applications, flight bookings, and accommodation, he suggests seeing it at least twice if you're making the trip. Plus, if you visit twice, there's a high probability you'll get a one-on-one interaction at least once, so multiple viewings are definitely worthwhile.
He also recommends following only one actor per loop (performance cycle). Understanding one actor's story first before following other storylines makes it easier to grasp the overall narrative - great advice!
The Future of Immersive Performances and Realworld
Currently, you still need to visit New York or Shanghai to see 'Sleep No More.' But did you know that 'Sleep No More' is opening in Korea next year? When 'Sleep No More' arrives in Korea and the barriers become lower, we expect new fan bases to emerge and the immersive performance market to become even more active.
We also think various industries beyond theater will start attempting immersive experiences.
This naturally leads us to promoting Realworld - we're also preparing immersive performances. Realworld, as a playable content platform, has been providing various experiences, and this time we're planning to present playable performance content combined with immersive elements.
We ask for your anticipation and interest.
Realworld's 'Does This Actually Work?' will return with even more fun and informative topics!
Thank you.
▼ Check out the full version of [Does This Actually Work? EP7] in the video below. ▼