The Play That Goes Wrong is a farce about a student drama society staging a country-house murder mystery in which literally everything fails — doors jam, a mantelpiece drops, a cast member knocks herself out and is replaced by the stage manager. The engineering behind the disasters is the real craft, since the set is built to break the same way eight times a week. If you have a mixed group with different taste in theater, this is the one everybody laughs at.
What to expect
A two-act farce with heavy physical comedy and a set designed to collapse in stages. The show begins before the official start time, with cast members in character among the audience. Expect about two hours including an intermission and a lot of very precise slapstick.
Good to know
- New World Stages is on West 50th between Eighth and Ninth; the C/E to 50th St is closest.
- Arrive early — the pre-show happens in the auditorium with the audience.
- The venue houses several theaters, so check which stage your ticket is for.
- Physical comedy is broad enough that children from around eight enjoy it.
- Runtime is roughly two hours with one intermission.
- Front rows get pulled into the pre-show interaction.
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Common questions
Is it suitable for kids?
Yes, it is one of the most family-friendly comedies running, built on slapstick rather than adult humor.
Do I need to like theater to enjoy it?
No, though the jokes about backstage disasters land harder if you have ever been in a school play.
How long is it?
About two hours including an intermission.
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