There are more ways than one to tell a story. It can be done without a hero, location or dramatic events. We’re diving into how AMAZE Amsterdam, a rave-esque immersive experience, executed abstract storytelling using sensory and emotional elements.
Before entering AMAZE Amsterdam, we were greeted by an alien, or, an employee dressed like an alien. This extraterrestrial being welcomed me into what turned out to be one of the most memorable (and chaotic) immersive journeys.
The Twisted Tunnel
In a dark room, guided by a surrounding voice, we were told we’d be traveling “from head to heart.” Her voice continues, telling us this is a guide into our inner-self, through chambers of our self-consciousness and into deepest levels of our mind. Then a tunnel appeared and a trippy light show began, just enough to break your connection with reality before we stepped into the experience ourselves, becoming surrounded by the flashing tunnel.
The DJ Booth
In one room, beams of light dance around you like concert lasers. In the next, you’re in control. Using controls for frequency, color, volume, rhythm and pace, you shape your own audiovisual story, like the DJ you’ve always wanted to be. Then the room responds with its own twist, showing you “your true potential”
Then comes the mirror maze, which is still my favorite experience to date. It’s dark and disorienting, with loud music pounding and lights flashing just enough for you to barely find your way. Unhinged, chaotic, and yes, those are your own faces blinking at you from the walls! Fighting for your life, just when you think you’ve made it to the end, the twist hits: you have to do it again, but in reverse. Inner reflection, but make it literal
And Much More
Other activities, like the digital forest swing, bring you back to your inner child, as you swing your way from a lush, majestic green forest to a glowing midnight jungle.
AMAZE Amsterdam doesn’t hand you a story. It invites you to walk through one constructed with light, space, sound, and just enough weirdness to keep your ego out of it.
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