Bring to life the stories of the promoters, police officers, and rave-goers, whose rivalries and relationships drove a working class revolution in music and society.

Combining the latest in VR technology with 3D modelling, archive materials, 360° video, interaction and animation, this hour-long immersion invites attendees to adopt a VR headset, haptic vest, and controllers for a fully realised experience.

From poster-strewn bedrooms and pirate radio stations to a police headquarters and empty warehouse events, you’ll step into the shoes of rave culture pioneers as you witness this social phenomenon first-hand. Feel the anticipation, trepidation, excitement, and euphoria that was Acid House through an explorable virtual world and multi-sensory simulation.

Book your ticket back to 1989 to share in an experience that shaped a generation.

Following the VR experience, don’t miss a small exhibition containing archive and other exploring Liverpool’s Acid House scene to enjoy at your leisure. From Liverpool’s infamous all-nighters at Quadrant Park to the rise of Cream as a super club and global brand.

Presented by FACT in celebration of Eurovision 2023 in Liverpool.

Terms & Conditions

There is no refund on tickets once purchased. Latecomers will not be admitted, but may be able to be accommodated at a different performance, subject to availability. Exchanges are not normally possible but may be allowed under exceptional circumstances. FACT reserves the right to amend the programme without prior notice.

Opening Times

Every day from Thursday 20 April until Sunday 14 May 2023, 11:00 - 22:00. The experience will run once every hour. No latecomers are admitted.

Running Times

The VR experience lasts approximately 45 minutes. Please arrive at least 10 minutes before the start of your experience and allow for up to an hour from start to finish.

Age Guidance

Suitable for 16+. The experience contains references to illegal activity and drug taking.

Access

FACT is fully accessible. A seated experience is available for wheelchair users or those who would prefer to be seated for the 45 minute duration. A captioned version of the experience is available.

Photography

You are welcome to take photographs before or after the experience.

Bags

Please avoid bringing bulky items with you. There will be a place to store bags but possessions are left at the owner's risk.

Can I buy a ticket at FACT in person?

We can accommodate walkups subject to availability. Please book 4 hours in advance. To check availability on the day of your intended visit, please email gallery1@fact.co.uk

What is a virtual reality experience?

Virtual Reality (VR) is the use of computer technology to create a simulated world. Guests wear a headset with integrated over the ear headphones.

What should I expect?

The whole experience takes place in an installation space in which visitors wear a VR headset; during the experience you will move around in the space wearing the headset, engaging with virtual and physical/sensory experiences. This has been designed to feel safe, and to be as intuitive, enjoyable, and accessible as possible for everyone.

Do I need to book?

Yes. Each session has a capacity of 8 which you can book individually or as a group. This includes 4 walking experiences and 4 static experiences.

What is a walking and static experience?

A walking experience allows you to physically move around as your virtually explore. A static experience provides a fixed space for you to sit, stand and rave whilst you virtually explore.

Is there a difference between a walking and static experience?

Whether you are walking, seated or standing, each attendee will have access to the same virtual experience and virtual space. The walking experience allows audiences to move physically around the virtual environments within a large play space. The static experience provides the audience member with a smaller fixed space where you can sit, stand and rave whilst you using controllers to move you within the larger virtual environments.

Do I need to bring anything?

Spectacles may be worn under the VR headset however it may be more comfortable to wear contact lenses or go without your glasses for the experience.

What are the health and safety measures?

Most people do not experience any negative reactions to Virtual Reality. However, VR may be disorientating for individuals who are neurodiverse, have hearing or sight impairments, or experience vertigo, epilepsy, dizziness, seizures, motion sickness or fainting.

If you are pregnant or have a pacemaker, please consult with your GP before taking part.

Trained facilitators will be on hand to provide support and guidance throughout the experience should you require it.

We thoroughly clean and sanitise all equipment, including headsets and headphones, with hospital-grade antibacterial wipes before each use. We request that you use the hand sanitiser provided on arrival.

Babies in slings are not permitted inside the experience.

Any guests arriving for the experience who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs will not be permitted to take part.