Reviewed by Socks Whitmore
Trailblazer Productions
Through May 25
RECOMMENDED
On the edge of Studio City, tucked away down a dark alley behind an unmarked door, the gate to another world has opened. Trailblazer Productions presents VOID, an existential journey described as “a mindfulness session wrapped in an immersive theatrical story” designed to help you with discovering your place in the universe. Each show extends three Earthlings an invitation from the Department of Cosmic Affairs, an intergalactic agency that protects the timelines, dimensions, and worlds throughout the universe, and employs Traveling Soul Advisors to assist individuals in the process of renewal and realignment.
VOID is not like any piece of theater you’ve seen before. Where other immersive shows may involve moving between rooms, solving puzzles, or strategically influencing the narrative’s finale, this piece asks for a much more intimate form of engagement. The website’s FAQs section outlines the logistics fairly clearly: you will be seated for most of it; you will be asked questions; and you will never have to participate in any way you do not wish. Ticket sales end 24 hours before each showtime because of the preparations required for each visitor — once your reservation is made, you will receive an email from the DCA with the address and three simple questions you must reply to answer before your showing. You are asked to arrive 15 minutes prior to the portal’s scheduled opening; it can be a bit cold after dark and a little intimidating to be on your own in the alleyway while you wait, so dress accordingly. A safe word is available to allow exiting your experience early if needed. You won’t need your wallet or earthly belongings here, so pack lightly to be as unencumbered as possible and keep in mind that you will receive a few things to take home. It should be noted that because of the small number of seats available, it is possible for a group of two to be paired with a party of one; this can result in something of a ‘third wheel’ effect, but ultimately does not lessen the fascination of having such a deep, unforgettable experience with perfect strangers.
Beyond the unassuming hallway of portal doors is a dark and minimally lit space lightly shrouded in mist. Three chairs sit in front of the table where Soul Agent Z awaits you. Over the course of 45 minutes, you are asked to engage in a series of questions and activities that assess and reframe the person you are, the desires you wish to follow, and the challenges that lie ahead of you. Though every audience member will have a fundamentally unique experience, some may find these exercises nothing short of profound.
My personal journey through the Void can only be described as life-changing. My answers to the questions from 24 hours prior had clearly been taken into consideration while designing the encounter, which was refreshing and comforting. In a way, it felt like talking to a wise friend. By the end I found myself tearing up with emotion and gratitude. I entered the Void in a state of grief and confusion, but I left feeling inspired, relieved of some of my baggage and driven to take the first steps towards building a better future for myself.
The melding of theater and performance with mindfulness, meditation, and audience vulnerability is a revolutionary tool for healing, and VOID has tapped into a vital niche with the potential to change lives. I cannot recommend this experience enough, and hope to see more projects like it in the future.
Location in Studio City provided with ticket purchase. Fri.-Sat., 7 pm, 8:30 pm &10 pm; thru May 25. https://www.trailblazerprods.com/void. Runtime: 40-45 minutes.
