When Prophecy Fails

Hypnotic physical theatre and dazzling production design combine to tell the tale of a doomsday cult, and what happens when belief is shattered.

In a small town in the American Midwest, the disciples of a suburban housewife are convinced that the world is ending and that they alone know the truth that can save humanity. Discover the true story of the world's first UFO doomsday cult, inspired by a groundbreaking 1950s study into the concept of cognitive dissonance.  

Award-winning Scottish ensemble Groupwork combines astonishing visuals with powerful movement to create a timely performance investigating what happens when cold, hard facts meet the chaotic power of belief. Described as ‘near-perfect’ by The Scotsman, Groupwork blends movement, voiceover, music and stage and video design to present a woozy, melancholy tale of religious sects, clandestine observers and collective need.  

Vicki Manderson and Finn den Hertog’s claustrophobic staging combines with Lewis den Hertog’s visuals and the near wordless interplay of five actor-dancers to create a thrilling exploration of the crisis that follows the shattering of belief.

0 Stars

a mesmerising seventy-minute trip

The Herald 

Programme

There will also be a dedicated schools performance as part of our Discover Theatre programme. Find out more about our Social Impact work.

Cast & Credits

Creative TeamCloseOpen
  • Groupwork
  • Vicki Manderson
    Choreographer & Director
  • Finn den Hertog
    Director & Co-Writer
  • Lewis den Hertog
    Co-Writer, Composer, Video & Sound Designer
  • Milla Clarke
    Designer
  • Benny Goodman
    Lighting Designer
  • Sarah Imaki
    Producer
  • Courtland Evje
    Production Manager
CreditsCloseOpen
  • Developed with the support of Creative Scotland

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Dates & Times