New Zealand / Arts

Theatre to immerse audiences into What We Do in the Shadows

15:02 pm on 12 June 2019

Bloodthirsty Wellingtonians will finally get their chance to find out what goes on in the shadows at an interactive theatre this month.

Kayvan Novak as Nandor in What We Do In The Shadows. Photo: Supplied / FX Networks

Second Unit is a new interactive theatre experience, inspired by the award-winning vampire mockumentary What We Do in the Shadows, and will be unleashed on the capital.

On a huge custom-built set on Wellington's Waterfront, just a stone's throw from where Viago, Vladislav and Deacon met the werewolves - not swearwolves - the audience are invited into the world of the film as an extra in this live immersive experience.

The audience interacts with 36 actors as they explore different compartments of the huge complex which reflects the different sets and characters in the movie.

Second Unit is the first of a three-year pilot for this type of experience.

A first look at Second Unit's immersive theatrical showcase of What We Do in the Shadows. Photo: Supplied

One of three directors working on the project, Andrew Foster, said the audience would be part of the play as opposed to sitting down and watching.

"It's like going to an art gallery, but instead of the art being on the walls, you step inside it."

Assistant creative producer Anna Wooles said people should expect an anarchic night out.

"They can choose their own level of engagement, they should expect fun, they should come with a curiosity so that they can explore the spaces to their enjoyment."

The film's directors Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, who have just launched a US series, are not involved in Second Unit, but this live production has their blessing.

Second Unit will run until the end of June, and will be back next year with a different film for audiences to explore.

A first look at Second Unit - a new interactive theatre experience. Photo: Supplied