Labyrinth Theatre

1. Define the purpose and theme:

Agree on the main theme of the labyrinth (e.g., identity, trust, inclusion, life choices, memory). Choose 1–3 key questions you want participants to carry through the journey.

2. Select the location and map the route:

Choose a non-theatrical space (indoors or outdoors) that can be safely transformed into a fixed route. Map a clear sequence of “meeting points” (stations) and decide the order in which participants will experience them.

3. Design the stations and encounters:

Create short scenes or interactions for each station. Decide what each encounter aims to evoke (emotion, reflection, choice, sensory focus). Keep encounters simple, clear, and consistent with the overall dramaturgy.

4. Plan sensory elements and disorientation tools:

Decide how senses will be filtered (often by limiting vision) and which devices will be used (darkness, blindfolding, sound cues, tactile objects, smell, temperature). Ensure these elements are meaningful and not overwhelming.

5. Create the threshold and waiting area:

Set up a “waiting zone” where participants arrive and detach from everyday reality. Design a strong threshold moment that signals entry into the labyrinth world (e.g., a ritual instruction, a mysterious call, a guided entrance, or a symbolic object).

6. Assign roles and brief the team:

Assign a facilitator to manage timing and participant flow. Assign actors/facilitators to each station and clarify their role, boundaries, and the emotional tone they should hold. Brief the whole team on safety, consent, and how to respond to participant reactions.

7. Prepare scenography, props, sound, and lighting:

Set up each station using minimal but intentional materials. Test lighting and sound levels to ensure a coherent atmosphere and safe movement. Use symbolic objects that invite interpretation rather than explain meaning directly (for example, a rope can represent restriction or connection, a mirror can suggest self-reflection, a chair can become a place of waiting or authority, or a piece of fabric can create a sense of protection or transition).

It can also be helpful to include a few concrete elements to guide the experience. For example, a role can be built through a simple action, a short line, a repeated movement, or a small interaction with the participant.

You can also explore different ways of engaging the senses, such as limiting sight (e.g. using a blindfold) or working with touch, sound, or smell, depending on the atmosphere you want to create.

8. Run a full test walk-through:

Do at least one complete rehearsal with the team. Check timing, transitions, clarity of instructions, and the emotional intensity of each station. Please address any safety concerns, such as obstacles, slippery floors, or unclear directions.

9. Brief audience before entry:

Explain the process in simple terms. Emphasise consent, confidentiality, and the right to pause or stop at any time. Ask about allergies, mobility needs, sensory sensitivities, or anything that could affect safety.

10. Begin the journey (one-by-one entry of the audience):

Send participants (members of the audience) into the labyrinth individually (or in tiny groups), usually every 5–10 minutes. Keep the flow steady so participants do not meet each other inside.

11. Maintain flow and emotional safety during the experience:

The flow facilitator monitors time and spacing. Station actors adapt to each participant while staying within agreed boundaries. Keep one person available as emotional support in case a participant needs to pause or exit.

12. Close the experience and transition out:

Provide a clear ending station or exit ritual that helps participants return to normal reality. Offer water, a quiet space, and time to settle before group discussion.

13. Facilitate debriefing and reflection:

Hold a structured reflection using open questions. Offer different ways to reflect: talking, writing, drawing, and silent reflection. Encourage participants to share only what they feel comfortable with.

14. Collect feedback and document learning:

Gather short written feedback or a quick evaluation round. Document observations from facilitators and actors (what worked, what was challenging, and what should be adjusted next time).