Before we delve into the details of The Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game Show, it's probably best to let you know how to say that clumsy acronym, in case a fear of getting tongue-tied prevents you from asking for a ticket. 'The MMORPG Show, pronounced "Ma-morpa-ga", is a live, improvised role-playing game,' explains its creator, Paul Flannery. 'Players take on the role of characters within a narrative. They take actions and make decisions on behalf of their character, the success of which depends on the roll of a 20-sided die.'

Flannery is an old hand at audience participation and his last project was the rather ace Knightmare Live, which returns for a run at the Pleasance Dome. 'There are some obvious crossover elements in this show, mostly its sense of fun and escapism,' Flannery states. 'One of the things that drew me to writing MMORPG was the opportunity to play all the fun characters, something I don't get to do in Knightmare Live.'

For any MMORPG fans who might be worrying the show is a mere cash-in on the underwhelming World of Warcraft movie adaptation, rest assured. 'This show is definitely better than the World of Warcraft movie,' says Flannery. 'The CGI is better for a start.'

The MMORPG Show, Gilded Balloon at the Counting House, 6–28 Aug (not 15), 9.30pm, £8 in advance or Pay What You Want. Previews 3–5 Aug, £6 or PWYW.