The Immersive Theater in New York. Vighnesh Dheenadhayalan, Actor & Theatre Technician.

In the immersive theatre, Vighnesh Dheenadhayalan stands out as a pivotal figure, particularly through his remarkable contributions to “Squid Game: The Experience NYC.“His journey there began as he took on the role of “Host”, where he was responsible for guiding guests through a thrilling immersive game experience inspired by the globally acclaimed Netflix series. His adept performance involved not only delivering a scripted narrative but also employing his improvisational skills to enhance audience engagement during live interactions. Dheenadhayalan’s excellence did not go unnoticed; he was promoted to Show Lead, where he was responsible for auditioning actors for the experience, training, and directing them to fulfill the creative vision of Netflix, while he heeding to the increasing operational demands due to the popularity of the Experience. His commitment to maintaining the integrity of the show’s intellectual property and insights into show maintenance and actor performance were invaluable. By the end of 2024, his expertise earned him the role of head of Theatre Operations, further solidifying his impact on the production’s success. Through his multifaceted roles, Vighnesh Dheenadhayalan has significantly shaped the immersive theatre experience, creating memorable interactions that resonate deeply with audiences and elevate the art form to new heights. Immersive theatre is a captivating art form that transforms the traditional spectator experience, inviting the audience to move beyond passive observation and immerse themselves in the heart of the narrative.

Immersive theater is a form of performance that breaks the traditional separation between the audience and actors, allowing spectators to explore the environment and interact with the story. Its origins trace back to early 20th-century experimental theater, but it gained popularity in the 2000s with companies like Punch-drunk (“Sleep No More”). This style often uses elaborate sets and nonlinear storytelling to create a fully immersive experience. These shows exemplify the diversity and creativity of immersive theaters in New York , offering audiences innovative ways to engage with storytelling beyond the traditional stage. Sleep No More (by Punch-drunk). This is perhaps the most iconic immersive theater experience in New York. Since its 2011 debut at the McKittrick Hotel, Sleep No More has invited audiences to explore a vast, dark atmospheric reimagining of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Audience members wear masks and wander freely through multiple floors of intricately designed sets, choosing which scenes and characters to follow, making each visit unique. Then She Fell (by Third Rail Projects). This intimate show, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s works and the story behind Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, was performed in a historic hospital building in Brooklyn. It limits audiences to tiny groups, offering a deeply personal and immersive experience blending poetry, dance, and storytelling within richly detailed rooms. It’s known for its emotional intensity and intricate design. The GrandParadise (by Little Labs). Premiering in New York, The Grand Paradise is a large-scale immersive experience that blends environmental storytelling with social commentary. Audience members explore a sprawling setting inspired by themes of interaction, privacy, and grief, engaging with actors and non-linear narratives that unfold through exploration and discovery.

Squid Game: The Experience NYC (produced by Netflix ) is an immersive theatrical event based on the hugely popular South Korean Netflix series Squid Game, which captivated global audiences with its intense and dystopian depiction of survival games. This experience allows participants to literally step into the world of Squid Game and engage with the show’s iconic challenges in a uniquely immersive setting in New York City. Unlike conventional theater performances where audiences watch passively, Squid Game: The Experience NYC transforms attendees into active participants. Visitors are invited to compete in games inspired by those in the series, such as “Red Light, Green Light,””Tug of War,” and the”Honeycomb” challenge. The event simulates the tension and excitement of the show but without the actual life-or-death stakes, creating a thrilling, interactive environment.

In performance art, immersive theater stands out as a groundbreaking approach that blurs the lines between audience and actor, inviting spectators to become active participants in the narrative. Vighnesh Dheenadhayalan, a seasoned actor and theater technician, passionately elucidates the transformative power of this genre, underscoring its ability to engage audiences on a profound emotional level. He highlights how immersive theater dismantles traditional barriers, allowing viewers to interact with their surroundings and influence the unfolding story. This dynamic form of expression enhances the theatrical experience and fosters a deeper connection between the audience and the art. Most of this responsibility is taken by the characters occupying the world. As actors, the playground of Immersive theatre requires a particular set of skills rooted in traditional theatre but also borrows from the modern school of improvisation. Perseverance is not usually a word associated with acting, but Vighnesh explains that’s what it takes to be a successful immersive theatre actor. Even though the show is scripted, because of the structure of the format, it is imperative that an actor does deep character work that enables them to embody the character truthfully in situations that are not choreographed. There will be a lot of these moments, and these provide opportunities for the actor to make it a personal experience for the audience. Vighnesh’s extensive knowledge and experience in this captivating field illuminate the importance of innovative storytelling methods, as he advocates for a theater that is not merely observed but lived and demands the audience’s participation. By championing this interactive format, he encourages a reimagining of how we perceive and participate in the performing arts, paving the way for a future where theater becomes a shared journey of discovery and emotional resonance.

Expert Vighnesh Dheenadhayalan provides profound insights into the realm of immersive theater, emphasizing its transformative potential to engage audiences more deeply. He identifies three essential steps to create an impactful experience: the disintegration of barriers between audience and actors, the strategic placement of audience members within the narrative, and the removal of conventional social structures that separate reality from imagination. By dismantling these barriers, theater becomes a shared space where participants feel integral to the unfolding story, rather than mere spectators.

Dheenadhayalan notes that this is often achieved through a technique known as“polychronic narrative,” where audience members are invited to influence the narrative through prescribed moments of interaction. This approach not only enhances the motivational resonance of the performance but also blurs the lines between reality and fiction, creating a more immersive experience. But at Squid Game: The Experience, we achieve this, he says, by integrating games from the show that test the audience on multiple skills. Ultimately, Dheenadhayalan’s perspective underscores the importance of these elements in fostering a participatory atmosphere that enriches the theatrical experience for both performers and audiences alike.

To fully embrace this unique experience, Vighnesh Dheenadhayalan offers three essential tips. Firstly, be open and curious; approach the performance with a willingness to explore the characters, environments, and narratives, as your engagement can significantly enhance the experience. Secondly, pay attention to details; immerse yourself in the intricate elements of props, costumes, and subtle interactions, as these often hold hidden narratives that enrich your understanding. Lastly, respect the rules while embracing interaction; At the same time, participation is encouraged, but it is crucial to honor the boundaries set by performers to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. By following these guidelines, you can unlock the full potential of immersive theater and discover its enchanting magic.

Vighnesh Dheenadhayalan shares his insights on how immersive theater is being transformed. The landscape is being revolutionized rapidly. His compelling vision of its future trajectory: Greater Interactivity and Personalization. Immersive theater narratives are being adapted in real time, incorporating dynamic reactions to audience engagement.

Through the integration of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and sophisticated AI systems, personalized storylines are being crafted for participants. The traditional boundaries between performer and spectator are being dissolved. Fusion of Technology and Physical Space. Cutting-edge technological advances are enhancing immersive experiences. Multi-sensory storytelling elements are woven together—scents are diffused, tactile sensations are engineered, soundscapes are crafted, and visuals are projected. These elements are being synchronized to forge deeper emotional connections.  Immersive theater directly addresses social issues, environmental concerns, and cultural narratives. Performances are integrated into community spaces and unique locations, and the theatrical experience is deeply embedded within society’s fabric. These transformative trends will shape the future of immersive theaters. Goodbye, GoodView, and we say welcome, Good Interaction.