Came into project with open mind – pushing boundaries of storytelling, creating vivid and Interactive world for the audience, using set and props alone, creating a totally immersive piece. ​

First idea – Developed from Scottish folklore / myths – different rooms for different stories, testing the audience's senses. Making them decide where fate would lie. First room filled with doors – the participants may wish to stay together or split up. Their fate in their own hands ​

This highlighting red flags in terms of health and safety as we did not have enough people of watch each room making sure everyone was safe and playing the game right without endangerment. = too big for project​

Started to get  challenging for set and props. Our ideas started to get too ambitious for our budget. ​

We refocused ourselves and moved back to the mood boards created. The overall idea came to tarot cards -   the card the magician, which is where the idea of a circus came from.​

Dim or Flickering Lights: ​

Create a sense of unease by using inconsistent or low lighting. Flickering lights can mimic faulty electrical systems or add a horror-like ambiance. – Think of walking into a circus tent the lights from when you entre are already flickering.​

Shadow Play:​

Place objects or mannequins to cast eerie shadows, tricking players into thinking they are not alone. – This will really highlight the feeling of is this circus tent really abandoned. Puppets hung up on the wall, with someone on the other side pulling the strings, making the participants not know if they are really moving or if they are seeing things​

Incorporate Claustrophobic Elements:​

From the main room they find a trap door or a hidden passage, through this they must walk down a tight space, the floor being tipped to one side or the ceiling low – Going into the fear of what is ahead. ​

 Props:​

Such as torn wallpaper, bloody handprints, or cryptic messages scratched into walls or furniture.​

Sudden Sounds: such as a clown horn or laugh, creaking doors, shattering glass, at unexpected moments or even the sound of animals say an elephant or lion.​

Localized Sound Effects: Use directional speakers to make it feel like the sound is coming from specific parts of the room. – maybe to show the audience a clue? Or highlight something important for them to know​

Disorienting Layouts:​

Mirrors: Using mirrors to create optical illusions or make it seem like the room is larger than it is or has hidden passages.​

Hidden Spaces: Add false walls or doors that suddenly reveal new areas, disorienting the players.​

Use of Smell:​

As soon as they walk into the circus tent, I want a smell pod in the room setting scene. Creating an atmosphere / feeling of how long the tent has been abandoned. Unsettling smells like damp condensation or rain, or metallic odours (associated with blood).  Or a smell of fresh popcorn and candy like the snacks they serve at a circus.​

Sudden Changes that lead the players to know they are on the right track. Objects falling, lights shutting off, or furniture shift unexpectedly when certain puzzles are solved.​

Escape Routes - ensure there are easily accessible, clearly marked emergency exits.​

Fire Safety – make sure all fire safety follows regulations.​

Trip Hazards -  Keep walkways clear of wires, loose objects.​

Ensure all furniture, props, and equipment are stable and secure to avoid injuries if leaned on or bumped into.​

Pre-Experience Briefing  - make sure a briefing is done before starting, warning audience of any unsettling themes.​

Allow participants to opt-out if they feel uncomfortable.​

Safe Word or Panic Button -  A way for participants to signal if they want to leave or stop the game.​

State beforehand if room has any sensory sensitivities - E.g. strobe lights/flashing lights or smoke machine.​

Compliance with Local Laws and Regulations – make sure everything follows building codes / structural safety codes.​

Wavers – Make sure all participants sign a waiver knowing exactly what they are in for. ​