Enhanced experiences and interactions, plus increased accessibility. The new Birmingham Royal Ballet Virtual Stage, brings ballet to life in new ways.
The Virtual Stage – a tech focused project featuring content developed in collaboration with Canon, RiVR (Reality in Virtual Reality) and funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies, explores how 3D Mapping allows Augmented, Virtual Reality and Motion Capture can be applied to Birmingham Royal Ballet productions.
By working with, and learning from industry leaders, Birmingham Royal Ballet aims to become pioneers in the application of immersive technology for the international dance sector and leaders in production values of its digital storytelling and experiences.
Carlos Acosta. Credit: Drew Tommons 2022
Carlos Acosta, Director of Birmingham Royal Ballet said:
‘I am absolutely thrilled that we have launched Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Virtual Stage, becoming one of the first ballet companies in the world to embrace immersive technology and unlock the potential it holds. I am particularly excited about the possibilities this work has for reaching younger and new audiences across the globe, bringing them up close to classical ballet in a way that, until recently, has not been possible. Virtual Stage is another example of BRB’s commitment to pushing boundaries and keeping ballet fresh and relevant for future generations in this digital age. Thank you to Bloomberg Philanthropies for making this happen as part of the Digital Accelerator Programme’
Freefall, BRB’s company of dancers with learning disabilities, will also have their own VR experience and documentary of BRB’s famous production of The Nutcracker – both will be made available to specialist schools and through Birmingham Open Media (a creative technology organisation developing socially impactful immersive experiences).
The Virtual Stage, brings ballet to life in new ways
The Virtual Stage will leap from screen to real world this November, with an augmented reality campaign taking the 12 days of Christmas to locations around the city, with a NutcrackAR event launching at Bullring.
