3D Virtual Theatre Revival - could this be you

VR user at the Theatre

Breaking news for stereoscopic content is the new StagePlay virtual platform which has been created by Scene Partners. It will use the latest mixed reality technology including ultra high definition stereoscopic 3D video and immersive spatial audio

This does seem to be a great addition to the ecosystem for VR headsets but 3A hope would be it will also branch out into wider display systems - having created the content. Obviously this includes Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest but potentially other VR devices too.

The core offering enables people who would usually have problems in attending theatre performances to get a first class view of plays and other stage events but also will make this more widely available to all VR users. A number of reviewers have highlighted a concern with lacking the atmosphere of a real theatre, and I would agree it is not going to match all areas of a live experience, however if you have been sat beside someone eating food all through a performance or with a persistent cough, or have an uncomfortable seat then being at home on your own sofa with no distractions could be a great benefit.

This will significantly open the door to a wider selection of content in stereoscopic video, previously mostly limited to films and games.

While there have been some similar apps in the past and there is some content such as Second Theatre (www.secondtheatre.com), this takes it to a new level with an app and environment which enables theatres to create their own branded versions of the app and hopefully enable a wider audience for local indie or regional productions giving them some much needed revenue. Producers, performers and creators can use cutting edge cameras to affordably create and distribute their own content - live or on demand.

The first release will be a high tempo performance by the Blue Man Group recorded in their home theatre in New York. It will be interesting to see if they manage to take the format and make the Stereoscopic aspect more valuable than we have seen in earlier 3D music videos where there was often limited gain from a 2d experience.

This virtual platform is currently in beta with a wider release slated for later this year.

See stageplay.com for more details. 3A.