The Room where it happens

The Room where it happens

This innovative performance project developed a protocol for simultaneous multi-locational theatre experiences across different venues. Two creative teams created performances where actors at separate locations interact via screens and cameras, with audiences at each site. The project delivered two distinct performance experiments that explored themes of modern communication and relationships. Research findings revealed that audiences at each location felt they were attending the "main" performance, affirming the desire for presence in live theatre. The protocol successfully created compelling shared experiences without privileging any particular site, demonstrating potential for democratising performance beyond traditional cultural hubs.

This innovative performance project developed a protocol for simultaneous multi-locational theatre experiences across different venues. Two creative teams created performances where actors at separate locations interact via screens and cameras, with audiences at each site. The project delivered two distinct performance experiments that explored themes of modern communication and relationships. Research findings revealed that audiences at each location felt they were attending the "main" performance, affirming the desire for presence in live theatre. The protocol successfully created compelling shared experiences without privileging any particular site, demonstrating potential for democratising performance beyond traditional cultural hubs.

Lead:

The Yard Theatre

Date:

2025

Team:

Team:

Ashleigh Wheeler (The Yard), Prof Gregory Thompson (UCL), Dr Alejandro Bolaños-Garcia-Escribano (UCL), Reuben jacob (UCL), Dr David Cumming (London College of Fashion), Prof Carl Hayden-Smith (University of East London

Ashleigh Wheeler (The Yard), Prof Gregory Thompson (UCL), Dr Alejandro Bolaños-Garcia-Escribano (UCL), Reuben jacob (UCL), Dr David Cumming (London College of Fashion), Prof Carl Hayden-Smith (University of East London