Ritual

The dictionary defines a ritual as “a religious or solemn ceremony consisting of a series of actions performed according to a prescribed order.”

Ritual by Ritual Events is just that. Upon arrival I am greeted by a man in a metallic mask and long black cape who instructs me to put on one of the masks provided on a table by the entrance. Now I’m excited!

When all the audience are present, we are ushered into the venue for the ritual. The feeling is similar to being in a secret order, but with no knowledge of what is going to happen next.

We are met inside by a host with a feathered headdress and long dress complete with black leather corset. She informs us that we will be witnessing several rituals tonight that will make us question our very nature, and if we are do not feel we can endure these rituals to leave.

Now it would be unfair of me to reveal the exact nature of the Ritual, however I will say that the first room’s ritual is based on desire and is inhabited by a gypsy-like girl and a satanic creature who desires her.

We are challenged to face our innermost desires and whisked back to the central corridor to be briefed before we enter the next room to face the ritual of fear.

This room is unnaturally cold and is occupied by a veiled woman to invites us to sit at her table. Here we face our hidden fears before once again returning to the corridor where we are congratulated for surviving.

The last room is a celebration that we have passed our trials, have been reborn, and may remove our masks. The ritual is over.

Full credit to Ritual Events. Ritual is a true immersive experience and their attention to detail is flawless. From the elaborate makeups to gothic horror costumes, eastern European costumes, clever lighting/sound, almost Transylvanian accents and a carefully crafted script, everything is spot on.

One of the audience members confided in me that he was very jumpy and was not sure he could remain calm. He jumped visibly and audibly many times! I felt safe at all times but nervous of what was to come, the hallmark of a good immersive experience.

Needless to say, I loved the brief time I spent in Ritual and wanted more, I was captivated.

Ritual is a cleverly devised immersive experience that is sure to have you on the edge of your seat and questioning some of the values you hold sacred. It is an out of the city event and deserves full houses. Go along and see if you survive the ritual, I dare you!

Barry Hill OAM

Click here to read our Adelaide Fringe 2025 reviews