The Grift Review

Walking into The Town Hall Hotel, one is instantly transported into a world of opulence and history. With Art-Deco interiours and Edwardian Architecture, the building which opened in 1910 is one of beauty. It’s been the filming site of famous films Atonement, Lock, Stock And Two Smoking Barrels and Snatch, now it’s the home of The Grift.

With 50 people per show, guests are split into 5 teams. We were part of the green team. Each team is given 5 keys during set up and dropped right in the middle of an adventure where we are trained in the art of the con. Our team was Green and had their been a prize for quickest and smartest team, I’d say we would have won it.

The game itself is part escape room, part treasure hunt and part theatre, but all immersive. You’re hooked from the second the story begins as you race around solving clues to become the ultimate grifter in a series of masterclasses. All of course to take down a renowned criminal mastermind. We don’t want to give too much away but during your time spent learning The Grift, you’ll learn scams such as: The Pig In The Poke, The Round-The Corner and The Money Swap.

We had a lot of fun running around the beautiful Town Hall Hotel, where the actors were brilliant and sets and props, even better. It was pretty impressive that this is still a working hotel so you’ll bump into guests wondering what exactly is going on.

The story line is impressive and engaging, even for those who struggle to get into character. For me, that one improve class I took helped dramatically where I think I convincingly stated I took holidays to the Caymen Islands to help swindle an ‘investor’ in one of the short cons.

Prior to the show we did have lunch at the Corner Room, The Cod was fantastic (though we wish the skin was crispier) but it was the chicken and the deconstructed cheesecake that had us wishing for more. The perfection of flavours, washed down with by a delightful bottle of cava was just what we needed prior to taking part in The Grift. The Corner Room restaurant had friendly staff and fresh, clean atmosphere. It was perfect place to relax before the intensity of the game and catch up over drinks and food.

The Grift is running until Sunday 25 March 2018, you won’t regret it. It makes for a fun and unique day out for friends, family members or even that first date. Shows are Tuesday – Friday at 8pm Saturday at 2pm, 5pm, 8pm Sunday at 2pm, 5pm. All ticket prices includes a free cocktail during the show and prices range from £32 to £48 with meal deals ranging from £54 to £70 depending on dates and times.

For more details visit onin.london/grift-coming-londons-bethnal-green

To book tickets visit: www.todaytix.com/shows/london/7647-the-grift

All tickets must be purchased in advance. Online booking will close 2 hours before each performance. Meal deal must be purchased a minimum of 48 hours in advance.

Watch out for ONIN.London’s review, where we’ll let you know how we fared in The Grift.

Website: www.thegrift.co.uk

Address:

Town Hall Hotel,

Patriot Square,

Bethnal Green,

E2 9NF

Twitter: @TheGriftUK

Facebook: TheGriftUK

Written by Tegan LeBon

Twitter and Instagram: @toogs1