When Prophecy Fails

The end is nigh, and the saucers are coming.

Step into a world of apocalyptic visions, clandestine observers and the faithful disciples of a suburban housewife.

Award-winning ensemble Groupwork present a daring new piece of physical theatre. Based on a 1954 study outlining a groundbreaking theory of human behaviour now known as “cognitive dissonance”.

When Prophecy Fails reimagines the events surrounding history's very first UFO doomsday cult who, convinced of an impending apocalypse, prepare themselves for salvation via flying saucer. Inevitably, though, the group face a reality which conflicts with their faith, and in turn demonstrate the profound crisis that follows the shattering of a belief.

Following 2019 Fringe First winning The Afflicted and 2022’s Imaginate commission The Hope River Girls, Groupwork bring their signature blend of explosive physical and visual storytelling to this thrilling exploration of belief and disillusionment at the intersection between UFOs, cultish devotion, and the chaotic power of faith.

The performance on Friday 14 February will include a 30 minute post-show Q&A.