Hexmoor, an immersive theatre and cocktail experience in Shoreditch, London, is drawing comparisons to the Harry Potter series but quickly establishes its own identity. Visitors take on the role of a dark witch or wizard imprisoned for crimes of their own choosing, with actors willing to improvise backstories.
Immersive prison setting
Created by Inventive Productions, the company behind Moonshine Saloon and Avora, Hexmoor is tucked away inside Alcotraz, the non-magical prison bar experience also run by Inventive Productions. This location isn't entirely clear from the outside, and guests may find themselves wandering the streets before locating the entrance.
Upon entering, guests are led downstairs to a dark dungeon before stepping through intimidating double doors into the penitentiary. The warden, Cornelius, hands out striped convict jumpsuits, which appear to be one size fits all, and assigns cells. Groups may share cells with other duos, which can be beneficial for asking actors questions.
Cocktails and characters
The experience includes a cast of zany characters, including prisoner Sitwell, who believes in a dark conspiracy; penitentiary head Cornelius; American prison guard Jamie, a non-wizard on an exchange programme from Indianopolis Zoo; and tiefling prison torturer Aephon.
Cocktails are a central part of the experience, with a standard ticket including three drinks served by a magical prisoner. The drinks are designed to dull innate magic, fitting the story. Colour-changing and light-up concoctions are among the offerings.
Ticket options
The standard 'apprentice' ticket costs £48 and includes three drinks. The 'enchanter' ticket at £57 adds a fourth 'extra-special' cocktail served by prisoner Sitwell. The 'sorcerer' ticket at £80 includes a custom wand delivered within Willbott's Wand Shop, a side room off Hexmoor.
The experience is suited to Halloween season, with a dark plot and spooky setting. Actors make guests feel like magical convicts, transporting them away from the bustling streets of central London.
