What I liked
THE STUDY takes the standard tropes of “killer at a cabin the woods” and subverts them to a theater going experience. The immersive and malleable aspect of the show help to showcase the talent at play, as the actors within the narrative have to roll with the punches provided by the audience. There’s a thrill to being part of the action…and the fact that the show never shies away from its genre roots gives it all the more gusto and teeth.
I found the cast to be charming and committed, the writing sharp and realized, and the directing strong.
I also have to note my appreciation for signing a waiver at the show’s opening…somewhere William Castle is smiling.
What I didn't like
While I have no issues with this show, I suspect that some of the mechanisms for informing the actors of the show’s pivot points could use a little tightening, as there were a few moments where it was clear they had check to see what they were doing. However, this did not in the LEAST distract from the show’s immersive nature or my enjoyment. This really is a blast. Go, go, go.
My overall impression
A raucous and thrilling evening for fans of immersive theater, and especially appealing to horror genre enthusiasts. THE STUDY delivers on gore, fright, but most importantly, entertainment. Part of the fun is there’s a new outcome every night…and it definitely makes you want to go multiple times. If that’s not an achievement, I don’t know what is!
