Virtue of reality | an immersive theatre experience
a group culmination of the mfa experience design class of 2019
my role: project management, creative direction, writer, graphic designer, marketing, wearer of many hats
Virtue of Reality was the year long effort of seven students resulting in an exciting and well-received pop-up immersive theatre experience. Audience members were invited to be a part of the story by experiencing a version of the future, interacting with an explorable open sandbox set, and engaging with the inhabitants of the world.
The piece was written, designed and directed by the Experience Design MFA Cohort: Erin Carlson, Jenine Dunn, Adrianna Hipple, Jack McCahan, Camila Montoya, Lyndie Raymond, and Veronica Rodriguez. View full program.
the experience
Stakeholders of massive conglomerate corporation VeraRev, are invited to an exclusive high-tech virtual reality preview of the idealized future.
Visitors should be prepared to experience a short virtual reality headset presentation and become immersed in a designed environment that is completely free to explore. Interact with the inhabitants of the future and determine what is in store for VeraRev and the rest of humanity.
Images from the performance
“Gotta say, I was apprehensive upon entering but as I went through this new universe I found myself wanting to know more about the world I was brought in to. I got really into it by the end. Incredible performance art that raised great questions about our world and future. Thanks!”
The stats
- The show ran for a total of 28 hours during one weekend.
- Sold out event, welcoming nearly 500 guests.
- Completely transformed a 4,000 square foot space.
- Year-long planning process to conceptualize, write, design, build, and direct the show.
The Design Process
“This was my first immersive theatre experience and it was so dope. All actors were so committed to their characters and were ready for any questions we threw at them. Loved it and the story. Would definitely want to see more immersive theatre after this! ”
the process
Virtue Of Reality was the culmination of nearly a year’s work.
- We spent months outlining and iterating the story, the form of the show, and determining our desired outcome.
- We then translated that story into set design and configured audience flow through the space.
- We found a venue, built the set, and acquired the props.
- Created the looks and backstories for characters that we cast from the Theatre and Dance department at CU.
“I really hope this is the future of theatre! This was such a unique experience. Such beautiful set design as well! Amazing job staying in character, such talented individuals. Thank you so much for this!”
concept art & Branding
Throughout the process I was integral in maintaining and concepting the overall creative intent of the story, setting, and aesthetic.
Concept art and moodboards were assembled for each set area of the experience. I used branding and graphic design throughout to further the story and create a foundation for world-building. Read more about my role in Virtue of Reality branding on my blog, here!
world-building through branding and graphic design
“Loved this. I came in with little expectation. Having been to Meow Wolf I wanted to keep an open mind. Loved this experience, easier to grasp. Wished I had more time, but leaves me wanting more. Every actor was perfect. Very believable! ”
see the buzz
People were talking about the show in our local arts community. Read more for interviews and reviews about the work and our design process.