The stag arrest is our most booked prank, and it is easy to see why. It takes half an hour, costs less than a big night out and gives the whole group a story. The groom gets the shock, and everyone else gets to watch it happen.
How it works
Two actors in police-style costumes meet the group in a bar, outside the hotel or on the street. They single out the groom with a story: a problem with his ID, a complaint from a neighbour, a warrant with his name on it. He is searched, handcuffed and walked to a waiting vehicle, while the best man and the group are told to stay calm and follow.
The "police station" turns out to be a private room, a club or sometimes a boat. The blindfold comes off to bubbly and, in the classic version, a surprise performer. After that the group has the room for a drink or two before the night carries on.
A typical timeline
The stop
The officers approach the group and pick the groom out. He is asked for ID.
The arrest
Handcuffs, a short "charge" and plenty of improvised drama while the group is told not to interfere.
The ride
He is walked or driven to the "station", often blindfolded so he has no idea where he is going.
The cell
The blindfold comes off. Depending on the version, there is a performer, an interrogation or a set of forfeits.
The reveal
Everyone gets a drink, the cuffs come off and the group takes a photo.
Versions to choose from
- The classicFake arrest, cell and a surprise performer. The version most groups choose.
- The XXLA longer show with more officers, a vehicle and a bigger finale.
- The bar-crawl arrestThe "officers" interrupt a bar crawl, so the arrest lands in the middle of a normal night.
- The kidnapThe stag is blindfolded and handcuffed to a pole. When the blindfold comes off, a party is waiting.
- The no-nudity versionA comic "interrogation", quiz rounds and forfeits instead of a strip show. A good choice for mixed or conservative groups.
- The surprise performerA drag act, a roly poly act or a dominatrix instead of the standard performer. Ask us what is possible in your city.
Is it right for your stag?
The arrest suits a groom who laughs at himself and enjoys being the centre of attention. It is a poor choice if he is anxious, has had a real run-in with the police, or the group includes people who would be upset by a nude show. Think about who is in the room: a father, an elderly relative or a work colleague is not the audience for the classic version.
Rules for a safe arrest
- Costumes onlyOur officers wear obviously theatrical outfits, never a copy of a real force.
- Brief usTell us about health issues, anxiety, allergies or anything that makes a surprise risky.
- One sober organiserSomeone stays in charge of timing and keeps the group together.
- Keep his thingsPhone, wallet and passport stay with him or the organiser. The cuffs have a key.
- Groom's vetoIf he looks truly frightened, we end it at once.
Tip for the best man: tell the bride or partner it is happening, so she is not surprised by a photo in the group chat.
Questions people ask
How long does a stag arrest take?
Usually 30 to 45 minutes from the first handcuffs to the final toast. The arrest itself is over in a few minutes. The rest is the ride to the cell and the show or party that follows.
Are the police real?
No. Our officers are actors in theatrical costume. Impersonating real police is an offence in some countries, so we never copy a real uniform.
Does the stag have to be told in advance?
No, the surprise is the point, which is why the best man carries the responsibility. Tell us about health issues or anxiety. If he would genuinely panic, choose another prank.
Is there always a strip show at the end?
No. The classic version ends with a dancer in the cell, but we also run a no-nudity version with an interrogation, forfeits and drinks.
Can the arrest happen in a bar or hotel?
Yes, the venue has to agree in advance. Hotels often refuse, so ask first.
How many people do we need?
From about six. Larger groups simply follow the arrest to the venue.
Where we run it
Open a city guide for local notes and how this works there.