‘I have never seen a more ambitious, elaborate example of site-specific work’
Benedict Nightingale – The Times

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Imagine walking into a disused building. You find yourself inside a film. It is a ghost story where unexpected forces, veiled by the American Dream, come out from the dark to haunt you…

It Felt Like a Kiss tells the story of America’s rise to power in the golden age of pop, and the unforeseen consequences it had on the world and in our minds. Beginning in 1959, the show spotlights the dreams and desires that America inspired during the ’60s, when the world began to embrace the country and its culture as never before. But as this daring production unfolds across five floors, blending music with documentary and the disorientating whirl of a fairground ghost train, the audience is forced to face the dark forces that were veiled by the American dream – a dream that ultimately returns to haunt us all.

Created by Adam Curtis and Felix Barrett with Punchdrunk
Original music composed by Damon Albarn
Recorded performance by Kronos Quartet and Damon Albarn
Directed by Felix Barrett
Film by Adam Curtis
Recording produced by Damon Albarn and David Harrington

Please Note
The audience will be admitted in groups of 9, every 10 minutes.
This is a promenade, walk-through production, the duration of which is variable – please see information box to the right.
Please wear suitable footwear.
This show is suitable for 16+ years.
The show is not suitable for people of a nervous disposition.
Production contains strobe lighting and theatrical smoke.

New: short trail for It Felt Like a Kiss:

Thanks to Allied London for the use of their venue in Spinningfields.

Commissioned by Manchester International Festival and the BBC. Produced by Manchester International Festival and Punchdrunk.