This proposal seeks support from the Mixed Reality Lab team in developing a live performance project that explores mixed realities. Using a classic text to weave the traditional with the contemporary, this project aims to create a virtual/real environment in a way that allows the actor to move seamlessly between both worlds, becoming their avatar in live performance, blurring concepts of what is ‘real’. This production will use a variety of acting techniques and digital technologies to present both worlds, and will monitor audiences’ emotional reactions to both via Galvanic Skin Response. The production also intends to use mixed-reality in the rehearsal process to ascertain the benefits of virtual anonymity to support character development. Themes explored include identity, reality, relationships, communication, and emotional responses.
Maggie Tarver (MCW (Dist.), LLAM (Hons), ALAM (Hons) LGSMD) – Maggie trained as an actor and worked in repertory theatre and the West End before moving to New Zealand where she worked extensively in the film and television industry as a casting assistant/director whilst continuing her acting career in international film and TV productions. She wrote, produced, directed and acted in the theatre production adaptation of 'Estralita'; ran and produced her own theatre company for 2 years; directed numerous short films and theatre productions before returning to the UK in 2013. Currently working towards her PhD in theatre and performance through the University of Surrey; interests include working with horses and animals, and fine art.
University of Nottingham School of Computer Science Nottingham, NG8 1BB
email: mrl@cs.nott.ac.uk