Dungeons & Dragons set to debut the game’s first ever live stage show

The first ever live stage show of D&D, Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern, debuts in New York this May in a mix of adventure, improv and good old-fashioned dice rolling.

There’s been something of a Dungeons & Dragons renaissance over the past few years. The shift toward more online modes of play has been a breath of fresh air for the 50-year-old TTRPG. There’s been a rise in popularity of live-play D&D, thanks to streams like Critcal Role. Plus, Baldur’s Gate 3 has shone an eye on the flexibility and creativity inherent in the tabletop game too.

As more folks start to engage with D&D, veterans come up with more ways to introduce new players to the hobby. That’s exactly what Curious Hedgehog decided to do. They first created their traveling D&D show. Its performed one-time shows at venues and events around the world — including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Now they’re teaming up with Hasbro and Wizards of the Coast. And bringing D&D to the stage for an extended run in New York City.

The Twenty-Sided Tavern isn’t just about watching other people roll dice. The crowd at each show will be brought into the performance. Some viewers might find themselves invited to the stage to join in on minigames or trivia contests.

But the show aims to keep the whole crowd involved by having them voting on key decisions the characters make. The audience will be using browser-based tech built by Gamiotics to participate in votes.

“As passionate gamers and D&D players, the partners at Curious Hedgehog set off on a quest to redefine what a live interactive experience can be.” Said David Carpenter, one of Curious Hedgehog’s producers.

For those excited by the idea of D&D live on stage the call for sign up’s to be part of the show is still open.

For everyone else, Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty Sided Tavern officially begins showing at Stage 42 in New York City on 5 May. Ticket pre sales begin on February 29.