The Dark Room – Interactive Comedy Show at Chelmsford Theatre

Prepare for an evening of chaotic comedy, audience participation and video game-inspired madness when John Robertson brings his cult interactive show The Dark Room to Chelmsford Theatre on Sunday 1 November 2026.

Part stand-up comedy, part improvised theatre and part live-action video game, The Dark Room invites audiences into a bizarre virtual dungeon controlled by an unpredictable host.

Armed with a microphone, a screen full of increasingly ridiculous choices and a suitably intimidating costume, comedian John Robertson challenges volunteers to find their way out of the darkness.

Will you find the light switch, venture north or abandon hope altogether?

The decisions are yours — although making the right choice is another matter entirely!

A Comedy Show Where the Audience Controls the Action

Unlike a conventional stand-up performance, The Dark Room encourages audience members to become part of the entertainment.

Participants must choose between options displayed on a screen as Robertson guides — or deliberately misguides — them through a surreal adventure.

Success could bring a cash prize, while failure is met with the show's famously enthusiastic declaration that the player has met their doom.

Those who prefer to watch can still enjoy the unpredictable comedy, improvisation and audience interaction without volunteering to play.

Now in its 14th year, the show has appeared at major festivals and events including Glastonbury, Download Festival, MCM Comic Con and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Event Details

Date: Sunday 1 November 2026

Time: 8pm

Running time: Approximately 100 minutes

Venue: Chelmsford Theatre Studio, Fairfield Road, Chelmsford, CM1 1JG

Tickets: £15–£19

Recommended age: 15+

Performer: John Robertson

Category: Comedy & Entertainment

Please note: The performance contains strong language and adult humour.

Booking Information

Tickets are available through Chelmsford Theatre's official website.

Book tickets:

https://www.chelmsfordtheatre.co.uk/events/the-dark-room

Box office: 01245 606505

Chelmsford Theatre is a short walk from Chelmsford railway station and the city centre.

Whether you're a fan of comedy, gaming or unusual live entertainment, The Dark Room promises an evening in which absolutely anything could happen — and audience members might find themselves becoming part of the show.