‘Fantasia: Sounds & Sorcery’ at The Vaults – Theater Review

One of the most exciting entertainment venues I’ve ever stepped into is tucked below Waterloo station, hidden among the skyscrapers of London, and yet few Londoners have even heard of it. It’s the underground world of the Vaults and I’ve attended three shows at the venue.

Playing now through the end of September, “Fantasia: Sounds & Sorcery,” inspired by Disney’s “Fantasia,” is an immersive experience that made me feel like I was the star of Fantasia, a movie I was never much a fan of. This, I believe, is how “Fantasia” was always meant to be experienced.

Upon entering The Vaults’ lobby, the sounds and lights made me feel I was about to experience something special, and my expectations were surpassed. Without giving too much away, different exhibitions are spread throughout the vaults and the headphone you are handed syncs upon entry to the sound system in each of the many rooms you are about to enter. There are rooms with performers, including dancers and acrobats, where one can sit and enjoy the show; rooms with maneuvers for you to turn creating magical effects within the space,;and rooms that are strictly sets, in which the lights and sounds sync dramatically with the score of “Fantasia.”

A bar is included in one of the performance rooms, and you’ll have to find it for yourself. We indulged in the special slushee drinks, which I recommend trying to add to the already trippy atmosphere.

I could not recommend this show more for any fan of theatre or Disney, of which I am both. It was one of the most unique, fun, and exciting theatrical productions I’ve ever gotten to witness.

The show is only running through the end of September, and I highly recommend trying to go before it ends its run. Just being aware of The Vaults is like being in on a really cool secret, so you’re welcome.

THE DETAILS

Fantasia: Sounds & Sorcery
The Vaults
Leake Street
London SE1 7NN
www.soundsandsorcery.com

(Photo: Accura Media Group)