Press Invite
I have loved Halloween since it became a bigger deal in the UK several years ago so I was really happy when I was invited along to the immersive dining experience at Key West on Bournemouth Pier. The Overlook Hotel was put on by Histoire Productions and the whole evening was themed around The Shining, which is one of my favourite classic horror films (I am a massive Stephen King fan so was in my element).
We arrived a little later than we wanted to as we had been trick or treating with the kids and then had to navigate the pier’s wooden boards in stilettos (mine, not my husband’s), but were greeted warmly by staff on arrival and given a themed cocktail, which went down nicely whilst we joined the rest of our table. I must admit, I had been a little concerned when I read that tables were 10-12 people, as we didn’t know anybody else, but the other couples on our table were quite friendly, although we did say that it would have probably been more fun if we had gone with friends and made it a proper night out.
I thought that the decor and props on each table were really good at adding to the atmosphere for the evening and the menu was thoughtfully created – as a side note we thought it was really good that every dish was either gluten free or able to be adapted to be gluten free (my sister has coeliac disease, so it is important to me that restaurants are inclusive).
The evening started with the first act before we were served our starters, then a break and another act and so on. I thought it was really well paced and we enjoyed the acting, which was definitely immersive (our table was closest to the staging area, but the three actors also made sure to move around the room and between the tables). The only thing I did think was a bit frustrating was that my chair was facing away from the stage so I did need to move around quite a bit and reposition when the acting was on the stage as otherwise I would have had my back to it. The actors were fantastic, I was really impressed, especially as there were only three of them but they managed to create a great amount of tension and suspense. The actress playing Wendy was particularly amazing!
When it came to the food, I was impressed, the main dish in particular was really tasty, and just the right amount too. Again, it was a little strange sharing the veg amongst a big table, and we did run out of the gravy and have to ask for more. The serving staff were really attentive, especially as we were asked not to move around or make noise etc during the performances, so they were quick to come round and offer additional drinks during the breaks in the show.
We were encouraged to dress up and, as it was Halloween, it was nice to be able to dress a little differently and I was really impressed by how many people had made an effort.
We loved our evening and found the show brilliant for a date night with a difference or as a good event to go to with friends for a special occasion. If you liked the sound of it, I would definitely recommend checking out the next event, Scrooge on 21st December.
I was invited along to the event for the purpose of review, however all words and images are my own.
