The scale of the maze unfolded as we took on ever more impressive challenges. Our initial setbacks made it more exciting when we worked as a team to decode a set of cards to win our first crystal. The set-up was so much fun that even though we failed our first two challenges (Jen narrowly missing a winch and pulley system, and Michael failing with a bow and arrow), we didn’t mind. Ours was the Butler – he gauged us perfectly and tailored his performance to suit.Īrriving first in the medieval zone we were immediately immersed in an impressive set. Each brings their own character and personality, and guides their charges through the maze with energy, wit and flair. The Mazemasters are essential to the experience. It certainly got our hearts racing and the adrenalin pumping.

Our Mazemaster (the Butler) arrived like the jump-cut of a horror movie. Personally I didn’t want to take on anything too much like PE class. There were lots of discussion about who might be good at which. He would decide who might be tasked with which challenges – mental, physical, mystery and skill. Our host greeted us and took us through to a snappy video safety briefing, further building the excitement and adding to our nerves.īefore we got into the maze of six themed-zones, each with several challenge rooms, we had a team talk. Upon arrival at the flashy West End venue (it’s in the Trocadero at Piccadilly Circus), we apprehensively locked our phones (no phones, no photos) and winter clothing away in the lockers provided. They just had to experience it for themselves. It was a tricky concept to try to explain. Most of us loved it (and the more recent Richard Ayoade reboot, but perhaps not the brief spell of Stephen Merchant) but some of the younger members of the team had no idea what we were talking about. It could have fallen between the stools but host and creator Richard O’Brien bridged the gaps with humour and knowing asides. It was like the geeky version of sports programme, or the sporty version of a quiz show. The Crystal Maze TV show was a phenomenon, the perfect mix of kitsch and play.

The crystal maze tv show