TECHNOLOGY
HOME X is a live performance within a rich and magical virtual world that seeks to bring people together through a shared digital experience. The concept was born out of a desire to create a space where audiences could connect with each other and with the performers, regardless of their physical distance.
Live on stage in Hong Kong and the UK, depth-sensing cameras capture 3D video of the performers using infrared light to capture the shape and movement of the performers’ bodies in realtime. The live audience will watch as they are digitised and streamed into the 3D world. This world will come alive for the audience through an immersive projection, with a live in-game camera following the digitised performers, the digital audience, and the other creatures of the world.
HOME X uses the gaming engine Unity to create a three-dimensional, virtual world. The digital audience members are able to fully engage with the performance by entering the virtual world as avatars. They can interact with other audience members and the performers using gestures and emojis, and even play a role in driving the story forward. The use of bespoke streaming technology allows for a lag of less than half a second between the London and Hong Kong performers, making it feel as though they are truly performing together in the same space.
In-person audience members in both locations will see half of the performers live in the venue and the other half as 3D projections on an immersive screen. Through the use of cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling, HOME X creates a shared experience that feels both live and real. It is a unique exploration of the concept of "home" and a celebration of the power of connection and togetherness.
We believe that HOME X has the potential to revolutionise the way that people experience theatre. By combining the best of live performance with the latest in gaming technology, we are able to create a space where people can come together and share in the magic of the performance, regardless of their physical location. We are excited to continue exploring the possibilities of HOME X and to see where this technology can take us in the future.
The system was conceived and developed by the creative technologist Ian Gallagher. The London studio is built with Kakilang and the Hong Kong studio is built by Don’t Believe in Style.