There are 7 diverse categories in the Immersive Experience Awards, which means there’s a place for your work. Take a look below at what we’re looking for in each category and how each category will be judged. If you have any questions, please contact us at hello@immersiveexperienceawards.com
1 Immersive Theatre
Experiences where audiences step inside the story, whether guided, free-roaming, character-led or environment-driven.
We’re looking for:
Projects that blur the boundary between performer and audience, using space, narrative and interaction to create emotional impact.
Judges assess aspects such as:
Storytelling and narrative structure
Quality and integration of performance
Audience agency and connection
World-building through set, sound, light and movement
Cohesion between concept and execution
2 Escape Rooms & Puzzle Experiences
Live interactive puzzle environments, narrative games, mystery adventures or challenge-based experiences.
We’re looking for:
Exceptional puzzle design paired with atmosphere, pacing and satisfying progression.
Judges assess aspects such as:
Clarity and originality of puzzles
Integration of gameplay into the environment
Level of challenge vs flow
Narrative or thematic coherence
How engaged and empowered players feel throughout
3 Immersive Dining & Hospitality
Restaurants, supper clubs or culinary events where storytelling, environment, performance or technology transform the meal.
We’re looking for:
Experiences where guests are transported beyond a traditional dining format.
Judges assess aspects such as:
Concept and creative vision
Balance of cuisine, narrative and environment
Guest journey from arrival to departure
Atmosphere, sensory design and staging
Thoughtful details that elevate experience over meal service
4 Interactive & Projection-Based
Programmable environments, digital art rooms, walk-through installations or galleries enhanced by audio-visual storytelling.
We’re looking for:
Immersive exhibitions that engage visitors emotionally, intellectually or physically through light, sound, media or participation.
Judges assess aspects such as:
Clarity and originality of creative idea
Integration of projection / audio / spatial design
Emotional or thematic resonance
Accessibility of the journey or message
Visitor engagement beyond visual spectacle
5 XR / VR / AR Experiences
Mixed reality, extended reality or digital environments where audiences enter a virtual, augmented or hybrid space.
We’re looking for:
World-building that only XR makes possible, with thoughtful design, interaction and presence.
Judges assess aspects such as:
Immersive world and interaction design
Narrative or gameplay journey
Usability for participants
Technical innovation balanced with craft
Emotional or experiential depth, not just technology showcase
6 Brand Activations
Pop-ups, installations, live marketing campaigns, or public experiences created for brands or organisations.
We’re looking for:
Experiences that engage audiences authentically, with storytelling and participation at their core.
Judges assess aspects such as:
Creative idea and clarity of purpose
Ability to invite interaction, not just observation
Brand integration that enhances the experience
Design craft across touchpoints
Impact, memorability and audience engagement
7 Production Design & Craft
Outstanding achievement in physical world-building: set design, scenic construction, fabrication, costumes, props, puppetry, lighting environments, or multi-sensory elements.
We’re looking for:
Projects where design is central to transporting guests into another reality.
Judges assess aspects such as:
Design concept and cohesiveness
Quality and innovation of build
Integration with narrative or gameplay
Materiality, finish and detail
Contribution to immersion and audience presence
Good luck in entering the awards and if you have any questions, feel free to drop us a line at hello@immersiveexperienceawards.com