Audience members can vote on the storyline in real time from their smartphones.

What to Expect at Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern

I’d be lying if I didn’t say I was expecting to watch a group of actors play a round of D&D–but that couldn’t have been further from what went down at the Stage 42 theater. In reality, Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern is an innovative and engaging choose-your-own-adventure that empowers the audience to help determine what happens next.

Before the production even begins, cast members come out into the audience to interact with the crowd. On our visit, the Dungeon Master chatted away with my son and his friend, asking them to fill out cards with random words of their choosing to be stored away in a box and used later in the show. During the play, the crowd is repeatedly invited to vote on the storyline in real time using a website that’s easily accessed from your smartphone. Between calling out suggestions, answering riddles, and utilizing the website, the audience has a real hand in shaping the quest and, therefore, their own experience of the show. Add in a rotating cast of colorful characters, and you’ve got fantastical improv comedy that keeps spectators on their toes and is truly never the same twice.

There's no shortage of opportunities for audience participation during the production.

Who Will Enjoy Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern

While The Twenty-Sided Tavern is certainly likely to be a big hit with D&D fanatics, no prior knowledge of the game is needed to have a blast. Novices like me will appreciate that the Dungeon Master and ensemble do a great job educating the audience on terminology and rules that are critical to the storyline. Experts in the game, like my son and his friend, will notice that the show varies a bit from the at-home rulebook in order to ensure that everyone begins the journey on the same footing. But, despite some modifications, the production–which takes place in the Forgotten Realms–incorporates loads of D&D lore, mechanics, and easter eggs that superfans will love.

Meet the cast and catch some fun photo ops at the theater.

The Twenty-Sided Tavern is recommended for ages 8 and up, which feels like the right range. While the production does run for 2 and a half hours with a 15-minute intermission, the interactive nature made it easy for my typically very fidgety son to stay happily seated and engaged. Do keep in mind that as this is an improvisation, there may sometimes be bawdy content and simulated violence, but the performers seemed very skilled at reading the room and suiting the quest to the age groups present. Even though my son’s team lost their D&D battle, he was all smiles as the show wrapped up. After spending some time talking to the cast, we headed out–my son and his friend raving about The Twenty-Sided Tavern the whole ride home.

What to Know Before You Go

• The show runs for around 2 hours and 30 minutes with a 15-minute intermission.
• The Stage 42 Theatre is located at 422 West 42nd Street between 9th and Dyer Avenue, New York, NY, 10036.
• The closest subway stop is 42nd St. - Port Authority subway stop on the A, C, and E lines.
• The closest bus stop is 9 Av./W 42 St. on the M11 and M34A-SBS lines and W 42 St./9 Av. M42.
• The venue is ADA-accessible. Tickets for accessible seating locations can only be purchased in person at the box office or by Telecharge Access Services at 212-239-6222.
• Make sure you bring a fully charged device to access the software Gamiotics, which enables voting throughout the show. Wifi is available and there is no app download required.
• Taking photos and videos is permitted throughout the show.
• Costumes are encouraged–just make sure any elements you are wearing won’t obstruct the view of or be distracting to anyone else present, and leave any weaponry at home.
• Adult beverages, soft drinks, and snacks are available in the lobby before the show and during intermission. Food and drink purchased at the venue may be brought into the theater. No outside food or drink is allowed.
• A small merchandise table is set up at the end of the show.
• This production uses strobe or flashing lights, theatrical haze, and moments of darkness.

The hilarious Dungeons & Dragons inspired show keeps kids excited and engaged.

The Twenty-Sided Tavern Tickets and Discount Ticket Lottery

If you’re ready for your own laugh-out-loud D&D adventure with The Twenty Sided Tavern, order your tickets online now (and expect a taste of the interactive journey ahead!). You can also call Telecharge or purchase tickets in-person at the Stage 42 Box Office.

A limited number of $39 tickets (including fees) are also available by digital lottery–open online from midnight until 3:00pm for admission to the next day’s performances. Take a chance on the lottery here!

All photos are courtesy of Mommy Poppins.