Fight for America!

Internationally acclaimed multimedia performance company the american vicarious returns to Stone Nest with the world premiere of Fight for America!—a groundbreaking participatory installation inspired by tactical tabletop wargames.

Set on the morning of January 6, 2021, Fight for America! explores the legacy of the Capitol riot and the gamification of American politics. Participants are invited to literally play out the events of the day—grappling with questions of division, democracy, and dialogue as they do.

At the heart of this experience is a sprawling 50’ x 50’ game board featuring 10,000 hand-painted miniatures and a 14-foot-wide scale model of the U.S. Capitol Building. Guided by an enigmatic Gamemaster in the form of Uncle Sam, up to 20 players take on roles in one of two factions:

TEAM RED –vs– TEAM BLUE

Each side represents a vision of America in conflict—and must reckon with the fundamental question: What about America is worth fighting for? 

Designed by UK-based game developer Alessio Cavatore (Warhammer 40K, Bolt Action), the gameplay is driven by uncertainty, improvisation, and real-time decision-making.

Equal parts theatrical spectacle and political provocation, Fight for America! offers an unflinching look at the forces shaping—and shaking—the foundation of American democracy.

Duration: 2.5 hours
Snacks provided | Bar available

On Sat 28th June at 2pm there will be a special game with legendary game designer, Alessio Cavatore.

Details of the american vicarious' Kickstarter campaign can be found here.

What is Fight for America!?

Fight for America! is a live, interactive performance installation centered around a large-scale tabletop wargame that explores the events of January 6th at the U.S. Capitol, posing the question: What about America is worth fighting for? It’s a participatory experience that explores political division, extremism, and the future of democracy through gameplay and artistic engagement.

What is a tabletop wargame?

A tabletop wargame is a strategic game where players use miniature figures to simulate battles or conflicts on a game board. Players move pieces, follow specific rules, and engage in tactical decision-making to achieve objectives. In Fight for America!, the wargame simulates the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol, allowing players to experience and reflect on the dynamics of political conflict.

What does playing involve?

Players make strategic decisions, move pieces, and engage with the game’s mechanics. The entire installation creates a dynamic space for reflection and engagement with the themes of division and unity in American politics.

How long does a game session last?

The live performance installation lasts around 2.5hrs, depending on the strategies and decisions made by the players. To enhance the experience, snacks will be served during gameplay. We promise, the time flies!

Is the game suitable for all audiences?

The game tackles complex and sensitive issues surrounding political violence and division in America. For players, we recommend it for mature audiences (16+) who are comfortable engaging with these topics. However, the project encourages open dialogue and reflection for all participants.

How is the Capitol built?

The model of the US Capitol is in 1:64 scale, spans 3.15m x 4.2m x 1.5m, and is composed of approximately 900 individual parts that were 3D printed. In total, the project required approximately 5400 printing hours (225 Days). On average, each machine ran for around 435 hours, accounting for some downtime between prints.

The main table measures 21’ wide and 13’ deep. Each side table is approximately 8’x8’ give or take. Area of all tables together is just over 500 sq ft. Including the base pedestal that was 3D printed, it measures about 13’9” wide, by 10’6” deep.

What about all those miniatures…

There are approximately 7,000 28mm miniatures representing the Red and Blue teams. Each was 3D printed and painted by hand. We have spent the last 2 years painting these, along with many members of our families and friends!

Stone Nest is an arts organisation and performance venue in the heart of London's West End, bringing exceptional and experimental art to a wide audience. A hidden gem nestled amidst the bright lights of theatreland, it offers a platform for bold, visionary artists and a space where audiences can encounter an eclectic programme of contemporary performance.

Stone Nest is an old building and unfortunately cannot currently accommodate electric wheelchairs. We can accommodate manually operated wheelchairs at ground floor level via a temporary ramp; please let us know that you are a wheelchair user when booking.