What is Escape the Internet?
Escape the Internet is an interactive cinematic video game that uses your own smartphone to transform the world around you.
Rather than sitting and watching a traditional film or performance, you’ll use your phone to interact with the experience and uncover what happens next.
Do I need a VR headset?
No. Escape the Internet does not use a VR headset.
The experience uses your own smartphone, so there is no headset or specialist equipment required.
Do I need to bring my phone?
Yes. You will need to bring a smartphone with you to take part.
Please make sure your phone is fully charged before arriving.
Do I need to download anything?
You may be asked to join the experience on your phone before the event begins. Full instructions will be provided by the team when you arrive.
Please ensure that any VPNs are turned off before joining the experience.
Will I need mobile data or Wi-Fi?
You will join the experience via host Wi-Fi at the venue.
How long does the experience last?
Please allow approximately 2 hours for the full experience.
Your ticket is for a specific session, so please arrive in plenty of time.
What time should I arrive?
Please arrive 15 minutes before your booked session.
This allows time to check in, receive instructions and prepare your phone before the experience begins. No late arrivals will be admitted.
Do I need any previous experience with immersive technology?
No.
Escape the Internet is designed to be accessible to people whether or not they have experienced immersive or interactive work before.
The team will explain everything you need to know before you begin.
Is it suitable for children?
Audience Guidance: 18+ only
Escape The Internet is an irreverent, interactive live experience created for adult audiences.
The show includes stand-up comedy, audience participation, strong language and adult humour, and may include material that some audience members find provocative, challenging or offensive. Audience participation is an integral part of the experience, and attendees may be invited to interact directly with the performers. Please consider the nature of the show and this guidance before purchasing a ticket. This experience is strictly for audiences aged 18 and over.
Can I attend on my own?
Yes. You can attend on your own or with friends.
The experience is designed to be experienced by individual audience members while sharing the same event environment.
Can I attend with friends?
Absolutely.
We encourage audiences to experience Escape the Internet together, although your interaction with the work will take place through your own phone.
Can I book for a group?
We offer a discounted rate for groups of four or more and the group of four tickets can be purchased directly in the box office with the discount applied. For larger groups please contact Belfast XR Festival. We would ask that where possible your group arrives at the event together at least fifteen minutes before the scheduled time.
Do I need headphones?
No.
What happens if my phone battery is low?
We recommend arriving with your phone fully charged. Limited numbers of powerbanks will be available.
What happens if I don’t have a smartphone?
A smartphone is required to participate in the experience.
If you have a specific access requirement that means you cannot use a smartphone, please contact the festival team before booking to discuss whether an alternative arrangement is possible.
Can I use an iPhone or Android phone?
Yes. Escape the Internet is designed to work on iOS and Android smartphones.
If you are unsure whether your device is compatible, please contact the festival team before booking.
Will I be walking around?
The experience takes place within the venue and is seated.
If you have mobility requirements, please contact us before booking so we can discuss the experience with you.
Is the experience accessible?
The Black Box provides accessible facilities, including step-free access and accessible
toilets.
However, as Escape the Internet is an interactive experience, there may be additional requirements relating to movement, use of a smartphone and interaction with the work.
If you have specific access requirements, please contact the festival team before booking.
Can I bring a Personal Assistant or carer?
Yes. If you require a Personal Assistant or carer to attend with you, please contact the box office/festival team so that an appropriate ticket can be arranged.
What if I feel uncomfortable during the experience?
You can stop participating at any time.
If you need assistance during the experience, a member of the festival or production team will be available to help.
Is there anything I should know about the content?
If you have questions about the content of the experience before booking, please contact the festival team.
Can I take photographs or record the experience?
You are NOT permitted to take photographs or record the experience. Failure to do so will result in removal from the experience and or venue.
Can I arrive late?
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled session.
Because the experience begins at a set time and requires an introduction/setup, late arrivals will not be able to participate once the experience has started.
Do I need to print my ticket?
No. You can show your ticket on your phone.
And you’ll be using your phone for the experience itself!
What happens if I can’t attend?
Ticket refund and exchange policies are determined by the ticketing platform and festival.
Please check the ticket terms at the time of booking.
Where is Escape the Internet taking place?
The Black Box
18–22 Hill Street
Belfast
BT1 2LA
The Black Box is located in Belfast’s Cathedral Quarter.
Who can I contact if I have a question before booking?
For questions about Escape the Internet, accessibility or whether your phone/device is suitable, please contact the Belfast XR Festival / Belfast Film Festival team before booking.
We’d be happy to help you understand what to expect before you attend.