Hex and the City (Review)

Discover oft-forgotten stories of the London women persecuted as witches in this lively theatrical walking tour

The City, in all its suited and booted glory, usually represents a nexus of power, professions and pubs, but we were shown a very different side in immersive walking tour Hex and the City.

From the safety of a cheery coven that we were honorary members of for the evening we walked off the beaten path, both literally and metaphorically, to learn about women throughout history who were persecuted as witches.

This was a walking tour with a theatrical twist; acted vignettes which resurrected these often forgotten women… and now they want their stories to be heard!

*high-pitched cackle for effect*

These personal stories were interspersed with spoken informational passages including the origins of witches attire, some bizarre trials as late as 1944(?!) and the misaligned rewards structures that came with being the Witch Hunter General.

It's clearly a fun concept, but what won me over was our host Maria herself. She's a wonderful and fearless storyteller, balancing high-energy, comedy and surprises (many courtesy of co-star Cariad), with thoughtful consideration of what is actually a horrific history of misogyny and violence towards women.

At its best I was moved to reaching for my friend’s hand for comfort as I listened to a heart-wrenching soliloquy from ‘witch of Wapping’ Joan Peterson. It’s a real gift to make the audience care about a character despite such brevity of interaction.

All in all, the 90mins flew by and we felt like we were discovering both important history and London afresh.

If I had any doubts it would be for something that’s billed as immersive to be a little more interactive, but nevertheless I would recommend it as an engaging and enlightening evening under the stars.

Tickets (£15) for Hex and the City are available now, click for more information and to book