REVIEW: DELUSION “THE RED CASTLE”

October 17, 2024

review: Delusion “THE RED CASTLE”

It is safe to say that Delusion is at the vanguard of interactive theater. Since its inception we have attended every single year since and have since seen its influence on many imitators  - none of whom could capture the magic of entering a completely different world the way Delusion specialized in. Headed by the talented writer, director, and stuntman Jon Braver, no one could quite touch the peaks that this event seemed to consistently hit.

In the past we have been blown away by their initial West Adams and Pomona runs; however, this does not mean that every single year has been without snags. What notably comes to mind is the year they were in the back of a comic book shop or their ill-fated run at the church in Silverlake. For 2024 we were excited to see that this year's original play, The Red Castle, would return Delusion to West Adams - the neighborhood that it originated in. Unfortunately, we were left somewhat disappointed with our experience.

While Delusion is usually full of stunts like actors falling through ceilings, going airborne into graves, or being pulled through walls - this year, outside of one exterior stunt, Delusion was lacking its characteristically amazing illusions. Another thing that was missing was their use of otherworldly inanimate objects coming to life. While in the past things like statues, dolls, or fireplaces became animated into human form - startling guests every single time - this year had none of that. In addition, their methodology of having groups figure out how to exit rooms through the use of finding objects or using props - was noticeably absent. This meant that the impact of The Red Castle's experience was reliant on the actors, lighting, and sound installations. These elements were excellent, but the story itself was difficult to follow.

Delusion is known for its creative storylines that usually climax with a very exciting finale, but this year the story ended abruptly and without fanfare. We felt somewhat rushed through (we could hear the next group approaching), though our group managed to solve the confusing puzzle (we don't want to spoil it in case someone reading this is going). As we wrapped up our time at The Red Castle we couldn’t help but notice that the people exiting were quiet and unenthused, unlike previous years where exiting groups would be filled with chatter and excited conversations about what they had just experienced.  

For a trailblazer like Delusion there is a tremendous amount of pressure to be innovative. There is no doubt that this event isn't cheap to produce and we can’t imagine the stress on Braver to consistently outdo himself every year. That being said, the tickets are very expensive and therefore the experience should reflect the cost of entry. Furthermore, while we were purchasing tickets online we were kicked out from the ticket queue, and upon trying again - had to buy tickets at a higher premium due to “high demand” for tickets. This tactic felt a little questionable however we trusted Delusion to deliver a memorable night. We are sad to say that the price we paid for each ticket, $120, is better saved for next season when hopefully Delusion has returned to its level of excellence.

VC

October 17, 2024

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